2025/05/11

SM Prime Leads the Way: Driving Innovation and Sustainability for a Greener Future

5/11/2025 02:04:00 AM


 

 For SM Prime, sustainability goes beyond a statement—it’s a strategic priority woven into the company’s operations. This commitment is evident in tangible results, showcasing SM Prime’s innovation and leadership in environmental efforts. The company consistently delivers measurable progress in promoting sustainability across its developments.

Anchored in its Net Zero 2040 goals, SM continues to strengthen its commitment to environmental sustainability through the scaled deployment of renewable energy solutions in its properties, integrating solar energy to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and reduce reliance on grid-supplied fossil fuels, while aligning its operations with global climate goals. 

As of early 2025, a total of 47 SM Supermalls nationwide are now outfitted with solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, generating a combined peak capacity of 63 Megawatts. These systems comprise 118,313 solar panels installed across mall rooftops, contributing to a measurable reduction in carbon emissions and representing a significant benchmark in the advancement of renewable energy adoption within the Philippine commercial real estate sector. 


With the MOA Sky walkway, SM Mall of Asia harnesses solar energy to deliver a combined 3MW of power —enough to run 1,000 escalators a day or power 1,800 homes for a month.


SM Mall of Asia's MOA Sky showcases a multi-use rooftop with a solar-covered walkway, contributing to their significant renewable energy capacity.


SM Mall of Asia (MOA), one of the company’s flagship developments, exemplifies this commitment through its multi-use rooftop, MOA Sky. Among its features is a solar-covered walkway integrating 555 PV panels, contributing an additional 0.3-Megawatt peak capacity while offering shade to pedestrians. With a total of 11,355 panels now installed, SM MOA’s cumulative solar PV system delivers 3 Megawatts of peak power---enough to operate approximately 1,000 escalators for a day or provide electricity to 1,800 average households for a month.

SM’s renewable energy projects were prominently featured during the 2025 Energy Efficiency Day conference, where SM Engineering, Design, and Development Corporation Vice President Engr. Teodoro Bautista presented the group’s performance and ongoing efforts in operational energy efficiency. The initiative was also a key factor in SM MOA’s recognition as the recipient of the first Sustainable Energy Award for a Private Institution, organized by the Department of Energy, affirming the commercial viability and environmental value of large-scale solar adoption.  


Solar-powered parasols at SM City Bicutan’s Sky Garden provide 4–5 hours of nighttime lighting after just 3 hours of daytime charging.


Integrating sustainability, SM City Bicutan offers solar-powered parasols with nighttime illumination in its Sky Garden.


Meanwhile, another SM mall, SM City Bicutan, recently introduced solar-powered parasols within its Sky Garden. These structures, designed with both function and form in mind, utilize solar energy to provide 4 to 5 hours of nighttime lighting after a 3-hour daytime charge. Beyond their energy efficiency, these installations reinforce the importance of integrating environmental considerations into the customer experience.

“Through these initiatives, we are able to significantly reduce our carbon footprint and create long-term operational savings for our malls, while simultaneously introducing innovative solutions towards a greener and brighter future for everyone,” said SM Supermalls President Steven Tan. SM Prime’s transition to renewable energy is a key component of its climate action strategy under the Net Zero 2040 roadmap. Through systematic decarbonization across its portfolio, the company continues to play a leading role in supporting national and global climate targets while delivering measurable sustainability outcomes that leave a lasting positive impact on the environment.

Paldo Brings Korean Fine Dining to SM Podium: A Taste of Tradition and Elegance

5/11/2025 01:56:00 AM

 



Manila welcomes a touch of royalty with the arrival of Paldo, the first Korean fine dining restaurant in the Philippines, now open at SM Podium. Known for blending premium dining with innovative concepts, SM Podium serves as the ideal setting for Paldo’s fresh yet authentic take on Korean cuisine. Brought to life by Ryan Bang, the restaurant offers a refined yet casual dining experience.  




Paldo, which means “eight provinces,” takes its patrons on a journey across South Korea through dishes that represent the country’s rich and diverse food culture. From bold southern flavors to delicate northern specialties, the restaurant brings the heart of Korea to Manila.  




At Paldo, the goal is simple: to show Filipinos how kings and queens of Korea once dined, without making it feel intimidating or out of reach. Here, fine dining is made casual and affordable, while still holding on to the elegance and authenticity of royal Korean meals.  



Experience the perfect mix of tradition and culinary creativity, where every dish celebrates the finest of Korean cuisine by bringing out its rich flavors and textures.  




One of Paldo's must-tries is Surasang, also known as the “King’s Meal”—a traditional full-course spread once served to royals and aristocrats during the Joseon dynasty. It features an impressive variety of mains and sides, including Doenjang Jjigae (soybean stew), Dakgalbi (spicy stir-fried chicken), Braised Back Ribs, Royal Modeum Jeon (Korean-style savory pancakes), and Japchae (stir-fried glass noodles).  


 


For something more curated, try Chef Sam Kim’s Signature Set—a thoughtfully selected lineup of traditional Korean dishes elevated with modern flair. The set includes Briquettes Bulgogi, marinated pork grilled over charcoal, and Doenjang Jjigae, a rich soybean stew with snails, tofu, mushrooms, and vegetables.

Both sets are served with a variety of carefully prepared side dishes, each chosen to round out the meal and bring out the essence of Korean flavors.  




Paldo also offers a range of drinks that perfectly suit the bold flavors of each meal, making every bite even more satisfying.  




Complementing the food is Paldo’s warm and elegant interior, with wood accents and earth tones that transport diners straight to the heart of a traditional Korean setting—perfect for both casual lunches and special dinners. It’s a great fit for SM Podium, offering a unique and elevated dining experience in one of the city’s top lifestyle destinations.

Visit Paldo at the 5th level of SM Podium and enjoy a unique Korean fine dining concept. Whether you’re gathering for a special meal or simply treating yourself, Paldo brings the rich flavors and traditions of Korea to the heart of the city. There’s always more to enjoy and more to share at SM, for more exclusive dining experiences and first-to-market brands, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.



What's New at SM Supermalls? Discover Fresh Favorites Across Metro Manila!

5/11/2025 01:44:00 AM

 



Life is full of opportunities—new experiences to enjoy, new possibilities to explore, and new discoveries to cherish. The best of living is often just around the corner.

At SM Supermalls, there’s no need to venture far to find these moments. Whether it’s trying brands you’ve been curious about or discovering something entirely new, SM Supermalls brings a fresh era of firsts right to Metro Manila. 

 

Comforting Treats & Game-day Gears at SM Mall of Asia (MOA)

Power up your active lifestyle with these hot new finds:

●Salomon—legacy outdoor gear and performance footwear perfect for your active hobbies. Enjoy shopping for premium, high-performance equipment at Salomon’s biggest store yet, here in the Philippines.

●Wilson—bring your A-game to tennis with their first-in-PH store for professional-grade gear and sportswear.

Soon, experience quality comfort with some tea and locally made bread and pastries with Kiji Bakehouse and Chicha San Chen:

●Kiji Bakehouse—experience their first-in-SM homegrown bakery goodness, offering a variety of pastries inspired by European and Japanese flavors.

●Chicha San Chen—take a sip of freshly brewed, authentic Taiwanese tea crafted using specialized techniques through a patented Teapresso machine. 

Feel-good Indulgences at SM North EDSA

Enjoy a guilt-free cheat day with this freshly opened sweet treat spot. TangFruits offers a Korean take on the popular tanghulu fruit snack featuring 80% less sugar, perfect for health-conscious foodies with a sweet tooth. Check out these upcoming stores perfect for your coffee cravings, culinary adventure and skin-care goals:

●Craft Coffee Revolution—specialty café serving artisanal brews in a cozy ambiance, perfect for both coffee lovers and casual drinkers.

●Lan Hot Pot—space-themed hot pot buffet experience culinary adventurers can look forward to.

●SkinGoals—looking for some rejuvenation? Experience their multi-awarded beauty and wellness services. 


Heartfelt Meals at SM Podium

Craving for more? Look forward to these firsts in SM, soon-to-open stores perfect for both healthy eaters and casual food enjoyers:

●HeyBo—Singaporean meals dedicated to serving healthy and enjoyable grain bowls, complete with a well-balanced combination of grains, proteins, vegetables, and sauces.

●Aurora—a contemporary take on bold and familiar Asian dishes, perfect for sharing. Ideal for families and friend groups craving international flavors. 


Beauty, Cosmetics & Fresh New Fragrances at SM Aura

Starting a new era is never complete without some self-indulging care. LOOK At Me delights glow-getters with fresh new sections dedicated to two highly coveted brands in perfume, skincare, and cosmetics:

●YSL Beauty—revolutionary, couture-inspired beauty essentials, redefining glamour and inspiring bold self-expression.

●Lancôme—sustainably innovative skincare and fragrances, crafted to celebrate effortless elegance in its most radiant form. 


Health & All-rounded Wellness at S Maison

Have a taste of these upcoming firsts in SM—top-tier flavors to satisfy your cravings, anytime of the day:

●Lartizan—enjoy an exquisite taste of Europe with these French-inspired premium meals, crafted using the finest ingredients and traditional techniques.

●Brunch Bureau—late for breakfast and too early for lunch? Brunch Bureau has your back with hearty servings of comforting food favorites, perfect for mid-day enjoyment.

Level up your A-game for a healthier, more vibrant you with BioVitalis and its first-in-PH store, offering curated selections of wellness essentials for your health and lifestyle agenda.

You’ll never run out of things to appreciate and love here at SM Supermalls—delivering store after store, each offering limitless possibilities. Experience quality enjoyment here in Metro Manila—only at SM Supermalls, bringing you a #NewEraOfFirsts. Don’t forget to like and follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events!

What’s New at SM Supermalls? Discover Exciting Firsts and Rediscover Your Everyday!

5/11/2025 01:37:00 AM




Home is familiar and comfortable, but routine can make it feel unremarkable. At SM Supermalls, everyday life gets a vibrant boost. Offering first-in-the-Philippines dining experiences and fresh shopping destinations, SM Supermalls brings local excellence and global sensations closer to you. Whether you’re exploring international flavors, discovering local gems, or immersing yourself in the latest lifestyle trends, SM Supermalls is your gateway to exciting new experiences.

Home to Authentic Italian Flavors

The finest flavors of Italy are now closer than ever! Rossopomodoro debuts its renowned Neapolitan pizza with its signature charred crust, creamy mozzarella, and San Marzano tomatoes as it opens its first-ever home in Asia at SM Mall of Asia (MOA). Meanwhile, Osteria Antica opens its doors at Level 6, Podium Social – SM Podium, serving authentic Italian dishes crafted with time-honored techniques, set against an equally breathtaking backdrop of interiors.

Home to Korean and Taiwanese Cuisines

Welcome the richness of East Asian culinary innovations with these exciting new dining destinations. Du Hsiao Yueh headlines its time-honored techniques with its heritage Tainan-style Dan Zai noodles, while Maple Tree House serves popular Korean meals featuring premium grilled BBQ, both located at SM MOA. At SM Podium, Paldo offers an authentic Korean fine dining experience, specially curated by a masterful chef from Korea. Lugang Café, renowned for its authentic Taiwanese cuisine and exceptional dining experience, is excited to announce the grand opening of its first-ever branch in SM Seaside City Cebu. Cebuano diners can now savor the celebrated flavors such as Three-Cup Chicken, Steamed Xiao Long Bao and Crispy Chicken that have made Lugang Café a beloved name. Meanwhile, Leo Pizza at SM City Fairview redefines comfort food with its unique K-style pizza rendition.

Home to World-class Food Sensations

In SM Aura, the obsession for food just got more exciting with Philippines’ freshly launched, first-ever Burger & Lobster, bringing London's iconic surf-and-turf duo to local food lovers.

Home to Newly Launched Classic Favorites

In SM City Lipa, Subway welcomes its first branch in SM Supermalls, Batangas, offering stacked, flavor-packed subs for Batangueños to enjoy. While at SM CDO Downtown, Barkadahan Grill opens its newest store, serving Filipino classics and time-tested comfort food.

Home to Clothing and Fitness Essentials

Everyday essentials for your first-time hobbies and elevated fashion statements are here at SM Supermalls. For our fashion-forward shoppers, Hechter Paris brings French high fashion to SM Seaside City Cebu, offering tailored, effortless clothing, headlining with the minimalist, contemporary styles of The Editor’s Market in SM MOA. For our more active go-getters, Juego delivers high-performance sportswear and athletic gear designs at SM City Fairview.

Home to Coffee and Frozen Treat Lovers

Coffee and dessert lovers will find new favorites with exciting openings across SM Supermalls. Tah-me Frozen Yogurt debuts at SM Seaside City Cebu, serving specialty yogurt known for its distinguished creamy and tangy fusion of flavors. Swirl Studio at SM City Fairview delights with customizable desserts, while Coffee Spot offers specialty brews made from premium-sourced beans, perfect for connoisseurs. For the first time in SM, Hoshino Coffee introduces its famous hand-dripped coffee and fluffy soufflé pancakes—straight from Japan to SM J Mall!

Home to Firsts Yet to Come

Zubaibai Seafood Restaurant, an exciting seafood destination, is set to make waves for the first time in SM Supermalls—coming soon to SM CDO Downtown! Nine Pot is set to bring its signature Taiwanese hot pot to SM City Clark, while ramen and sushi lovers can look forward to Yuki-Kun and Ramen Nagi, both opening their first-ever Cebu branches at SM J Mall. For dedicated café lovers, The Matcha Tokyo is coming to SM City Clark, serving authentic and high-quality ceremonial-grade matcha and matcha-infused desserts. Meanwhile, Salon de Thé, a refined café extension of French Baker, is set to open at SM J Mall, offering an elegant escape with a delightful serving of French patisserie. Beyond dining, SM Supermalls continues to introduce new activities to explore with iSwing Golf Arena—an indoor golf experience at SM J Mall. With unlimited shopping destinations and endless first-time experiences to enjoy, SM Supermalls brings the world closer to you, making every visit fresh, exciting, and unforgettable. SM Supermalls—redefining what it means to experience the world for the first time as your ultimate home to many firsts!

Download the SM Malls Online App on the Apple App Store and Google Play for exclusive deals and promos. Stay updated with the latest #HomeOfFirsts news and events by visiting www.smsupermalls.com and following @smsupermalls on all social media platforms.

Discover Osteria Antica: Italy's Culinary Artistry Arrives at SM Podium

5/11/2025 01:04:00 AM


Osteria Antica brings the rich, bold flavors of Italy to Podium Social at SM Podium. The restaurant’s wood-fired oven, aromatic slow-cooked sauces, and inviting ambiance create a cozy dining experience. Staying true to traditional recipes, Osteria Antica uses fresh, high-quality ingredients, adding a touch of modern flair.

Whether it's a casual lunch or intimate dinner, Osteria Antica offers a refined yet comforting taste of Italy in the heart of the city.  


The Art of Italian Dining

The Wildflour Hospitality Group brings in a new Italian dining concept with Osteria Antica that brings in the charm of traditional Italian osterias with a fresh take on Italian classics.

With a Valoriani oven for perfectly baked pizzas and a curated selection of Italian wines and handcrafted cocktails, Osteria Antica stays true to tradition while adding a refined touch. Whether it’s a simple, flavorful pasta or a bold Italian classic, each plate delivers rich Italian flavors.  


Signature Dishes That Define the Osteria Antica Experience


At Osteria Antica, each dish reflects bold Italian flavors and craftsmanship, from handmade pasta to expertly prepared mains. 


The Endive Salad balances crisp textures and bright, citrusy notes, true to the light and vibrant flavors of Italy. 


The Rigatoni Carbonara is a comforting classic, made the traditional way with rich, savory depth. 


To end on a sweet note, the Mascarpone Cheesecake offers a creamy, delicate finish that captures the essence of Italian indulgence. 



The restaurant also features Bar Antica, which offers a selection of wines, cocktails, and spirits that pair seamlessly with the menu.  


A New Culinary Destination at Podium Social

A seamless addition to SM Podium, Osteria Antica offers a fresh take on the classic Italian osteria. The restaurant blends tradition with modern touches, creating a space both welcoming and refined. Enjoy the flavors of Italy in an indoor setting adorned with exposed brick walls, wooden tables, leather seats, and floor-to-ceiling glass windows, or on a charming veranda with a cityscape backdrop. 


With its inviting atmosphere and commitment to personable service, Osteria Antica adds to the growing dining scene at Podium Social, a vibrant space on the 6th floor of SM Podium with the perfect ambiance for dining and socializing, offering a diverse mix of culinary experiences. As more restaurants open in the area, it continues to establish itself as the top spot for quality dining, offering a mix of familiar favorites and new flavors. This expansion highlights SM Supermalls’ commitment to bringing more dining options to Filipino diners in the heart of the city.

Discover the flavors of Italy at Osteria Antica, now open at Social Podium in SM Podium. For more exclusive dining experiences and first-to-market brands, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.

2025/05/10

Congressman Marvin Rillo: Strengthening Healthcare and Education in District 4

5/10/2025 10:26:00 PM


As the campaign for re-election intensifies, Congressman Marvin Rillo of Quezon City’s 4th District continues to focus on two critical areas: healthcare and education. His platform is anchored on delivering practical solutions to the community’s most pressing needs, emphasizing accessible healthcare and comprehensive educational support.

Prioritizing Healthcare Accessibility

One of the central pillars of Rillo’s re-election campaign is healthcare. Recognizing the importance of accessible medical services, he plans to establish healthcare facilities in every barangay, ensuring that residents receive immediate care within their communities. In addition, Rillo envisions setting up a makeshift hospital to cater to emergencies and routine health needs alike.

A significant part of his healthcare initiative is the continuous provision of maintenance medicines, aimed at supporting residents managing chronic health conditions. By making essential medications available and accessible, Rillo hopes to alleviate the financial burdens faced by families dealing with long-term health issues.

Education: Building a Brighter Future

Marvin Rillo’s dedication to education is evident in his plan to provide essential school items for students across District 4. His program includes distributing free daycare uniforms, school supplies, school shoes, and school bags to lessen the financial strain on families and ensure that young learners are equipped for academic success.

Rillo understands that education is the foundation for a better future. By easing the financial challenges associated with schooling, he aims to encourage more children to stay in school and thrive. His educational initiatives are a step toward creating a more equitable learning environment for all students in the district.


A Proven Track Record in Public Service

As a public servant, Rillo’s commitment to his constituents has been unwavering. His extensive experience includes terms as a city councilor and a successful stint as a congressman. Recognized for his outstanding performance and dedication, Congressman Marvin Rillo has been named the number one performing congressman in the National Capital Region and ranks third nationwide. His exemplary public service and commitment to community welfare have earned him widespread recognition and respect among his constituents and peers. Marvin Rillo’s journey in public service began as the Sangguniang Kabataan Federation president and continued through his multiple terms as a city councilor. His track record as a legislator includes advocating for increased salaries for public school teachers and pushing for lifetime validity of PWD IDs.

In the 2022 congressional race, Rillo triumphed over a reelectionist, proving his strong connection with the community. His legislative efforts have consistently focused on practical solutions that directly impact his constituents' lives.

A Champion of the People

Rillo’s dedication goes beyond policy. His grassroots connection is evident in his hands-on approach to community engagement. From implementing the Blue Card program that ensures free medicine to building healthcare facilities, his focus remains on providing concrete support to those who need it most.

Moving Forward with Service

Marvin Rillo’s vision for his next term is grounded in his passion for public service and his desire to make a tangible difference in healthcare and education. As his campaign progresses, he continues to assure the people of District 4 that their well-being and future remain at the heart of his agenda.

With a clear focus on healthcare and education, Congressman Marvin Rillo is determined to bring progress and positive change to Quezon City’s 4th District. His plans reflect his dedication to building a healthier, better-educated community.

2025/05/04

HONOR Opens SM Puerto Princesa Store, Launches Magic7 Pro with First Day Sale

5/04/2025 09:13:00 AM



HONOR Philippines marked another milestone with the opening of its new Experience Store at SM City Puerto Princesa, bringing its latest tech innovations to the heart of the country’s ecotourism capital. The launch also featured the debut of the brand’s newest flagship smartphone, the HONOR Magic7 Pro.

From L-R: HONOR Philippines’ Digital Marketing Manager and Content Lead Eason De Guzman, National Sales Director Tom Yuan, Puerto Electronico’s Managing Director Edwin “Eli” Tan Jr., Executive Assistant Jesus “Jess” Canizares, SM City Puerto Princesa’s Assistant Mall Manager Martin Domingo S. De Leon, and HONOR Philippines’ Regional Sales Director for Northern Iloilo Nixon John Iquina. 

 
“This store opening is part of our mission to reach more Filipinos and make our advanced technology more accessible,” said Stephen Cheng, vice president of HONOR Philippines. “We’re proud to bring innovation and quality service to Puerto Princesa.”




The event drew an enthusiastic crowd of HONOR fans, local media partners, and tech enthusiasts, all eager to witness this milestone. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was graced by esteemed guests, including HONOR Philippines’ Digital Marketing Manager and Content Lead Eason De Guzman, National Sales Director Tom Yuan, Puerto Electronico’s Managing Director Edwin “Eli” Tan Jr., Executive Assistant Jesus “Jess” Canizares, SM City Puerto Princesa’s Assistant Mall Manager Martin Domingo S. De Leon, and HONOR Philippines’ Regional Sales Director for Northern Iloilo Nixon John Iquina.

An Unforgettable Celebration

Guests were treated to an engaging program hosted by Alvin Sia, with interactive games such as the “Guess the Phone Challenge” and “Don’t Touch the Color,” showcasing the innovative features of the HONOR Magic7 Pro and HONOR X9c. Exciting prizes, including cash rewards and exclusive freebies, heightened the energy of the event.



“The opening of our newest Experience Store in SM Puerto Princesa symbolizes our dedication to reaching more Filipinos with our powerful and stylish smart devices,” shared Eason de Guzman during his welcoming remarks.

Innovation meets Tourism Capital

The HONOR Magic7 Pro took center stage, impressing attendees with its groundbreaking AI-powered photography capabilities. Featuring advanced AI technology, the Magic7 Pro delivers stunning, cinema-quality photos and videos in diverse lighting conditions. With its 100x Super Zoom, users can capture intricate details from afar, while its ultra-clear night photography ensures vivid, sharp images even in low light.




Equipped with the flagship Snapdragon Gen 8 Elite processor, the Magic7 Pro guarantees a seamless and lightning-fast performance. Its immersive display, designed for vibrant visuals and smooth interactions, makes it an ideal device for gaming, multitasking, and content creation. These cutting-edge features position the Magic7 Pro as a must-have device for travelers, creators, and smartphone enthusiasts seeking unparalleled performance and style.

A Testament to Growth

This milestone reflects HONOR’s commitment to expanding its reach and empowering communities through innovation. Guests explored the newly opened store, designed to offer a personalized and immersive retail experience, solidifying HONOR’s presence in Palawan.



Looking Ahead

As HONOR continues its expansion across the country, more Experience Stores are set to open, ensuring wider access to the brand’s offerings. The SM Puerto Princesa store joins the growing network of HONOR retail outlets designed to bring convenience and innovation closer to customers.

Color, Price, and Availability

Available in Lunar Shadow Grey and Black, the HONOR Magic7 Pro is now officially available nationwide! Order now at any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores, and online via Lazada https://bit.ly/Laz_M7Pro_PR, Shopee https://bit.ly/M7ProLaunch_PR, and TiktokShop https://bit.ly/TikTok_M7Pro_PR.

For more affordable offers, the HONOR Magic7 Pro is also available at Home Credit for as low as Php 2,484/month with 0% interest and payable up to 18 months.

To know more about HONOR Magic7 Pro, head on to: https://bit.ly/Web_M7Pro_PR. For more exciting announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram(Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

TWG sanctions Grab-Move It to rightsize fleet, stop operations in Cebu, Cagayan de Oro amid accidents

5/04/2025 08:47:00 AM



The Motorcycle Taxi Technical Working Group has sanctioned Grab-Move It for repeatedly exceeding government-imposed fleet limits and failing to submit required reports under the ongoing motorcycle taxi pilot study.

In a formal directive, the TWG ordered Grab-Move It to scale down its fleet to the number authorized by regulators and to cease operations in areas where it lacks government approval, including Cebu and Cagayan de Oro.

Grab-Move It has also been directed to fully comply with reportorial requirements on activation, deactivation, and reactivation of riders.

The sanction stemmed from a December 2024 Show Cause Order, where motorcycle taxi companies have been asked to explain allegations of breaching its rider allocations.




Records submitted to the TWG confirm that Grab-Move It was allowed 6,836 motorcycle taxi units by the government, but it was discovered that it operates with at least 14,662 riders— more than double its allowed number, and deemed “colorum” units against the law.

Grab-Move It was also found to have failed to report rider status changes, a key compliance requirement. The company did not refute this lapse in its response.

The TWG noted that these violations resulted in thousands of unauthorized motorcycle taxis on the road, raising concerns over safety, transparency, and regulatory oversight.

The company was likewise ordered to halt operations in Cebu and Cagayan de Oro, where it was operating without any approval or allocation from the TWG.

The Motorcycle Taxi TWG warned Grab-Move It that failure to comply with the directives will lead to further regulatory measures, including suspension of its authority to operate.

Aside from its failure to follow regulatory procedures, Grab-Move It has been criticized over a series of accidents and viral complaints involving reckless rider behavior, putting their onboarding practices and enforcement of safety standards in question.

Sen. Raffy Tulfo, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Public Services, also called the attention of Grab for the policy requiring drivers to shoulder the 20% fare discounts granted to students, senior citizens, and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

The Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) revealed during a Senate probe that Grab has already been fined millions of pesos for fare-related violations.

Since 2018, Grab has been penalized with fines amounting to ₱86.7 million, including ₱16.15 million for fare standards violations and driver cancellations.

2025/05/01

Sheena of BINI Steps into the Spotlight with Her Own “MMK” Episode

5/01/2025 06:25:00 AM


Sheena Catacutan, a member of the nation’s girl group BINI, is stepping into a new spotlight as she makes her acting debut in the second episode of the long-running drama anthology Maalaala Mo Kaya (MMK). Her real-life story takes center stage and premieres this Thursday (May 1) on iWantTFC, with a special director’s cut version available worldwide. The episode will also air on Saturday (May 3) on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live, and A2Z.

Adding depth to the episode is the return of acclaimed actress Angelica Panganiban, who plays a key role as Sheena’s mother figure. This marks Angelica’s comeback to television drama after her last lead role in Walang Hanggang Paalam in 2020. She also starred in the iWantTFC original film Love Lockdown, reuniting with her That Thing Called Tadhana co-star JM de Guzman.



Sheena first entered the entertainment industry as a housemate on “Pinoy Big Brother: Otso” in 2018. Although her stay inside the Big Brother house was brief, she pursued her dream of becoming an artist by joining “Star Hunt Academy” in 2019.

While undergoing intensive training and chasing her dreams to debut with BINI, Sheena faced a heartbreaking challenge — the passing of her beloved mother — a loss that deeply impacted her journey. She officially became part of BINI in 2020, and the group launched their debut single “Born to Win” in 2021.



 
Meanwhile, joining Sheena and Angelica in this heartfelt episode are Aljon Mendoza, Janell Gonzaga, Tart Carlos, Malou de Guzman, and Bembol Roco, under the direction of Froy Allan Leonardo and written by Joan Habana.

Stream the “unfiltered” and full episodes of inspiring stories brought to you by “MMK,” streaming 48 hours in advanceworldwide, on iWantTFC every Thursday. iWantTFC is now also available via Chromecast and AirPlay.






“MMK” will also air on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live, and A2Z every Saturday from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm.

To learn more about the offerings of iWantTFC, follow iWantTFC on Facebook, X, Instagram, and YouTube. 


  

For other updates, follow @ABSCBNPR on Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok, and Threads, or visit corporate.abs-cbn.com/newsroom.


About Me

About me
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.

You can also meet my wife on her blog www.mommysmaglife.com.


For project collaborations, product reviews, event invitations, or hotel and resort experience reviews, kindly email me at marcopolojdemo@yahoo.com.



Badges and Ranks

Food & Drink - Top Blogs Philippines Entertainment & Lifestyle - Top Blogs Philippines Music - Top Blogs Philippines
Blogmeter.Top BC_BLOGGERS

Gelo Malikha, EzineArticles.com Basic PLUS Author Marco Polo Demo is an Intellifluence Trusted Blogger

Recent

recentposts

Random

randomposts