Check out the Season 05 trailer here.

Here’s what players can expect in Season 05:

Multiplayer:

Multiplayer Maps: Crash the party at a rural Japanese festival in the brand-new Jubilee map and deploy to remastered maps Dig and Frequency. In the Mid-Season, invade a Nuketown pinball machine in Turbo Tilt and jump, dive, and traverse a harrowing parkour environment with the arrival of a new Freerun map.

Multiplayer Modes: Power up your Operator while capturing and defending objectives in Overdrive Domination. In Gauntlet Rush, compete for the top spot across five different game modes, and in the Mid-Season, turn the adrenaline up to eleven in Cranked Moshpit.

Black Ops 7 Ranked Play: Get wins and climb the Ranks in the next season of Multiplayer Ranked Play, delivering new rewards to those who prove their worth in the rankings.

Zombies:

New Survival Map: Return to the frozen land of the giants in the Eidskallen Lighthouse Survival map. Push the rounds as far as you can using the resources available in a confined section of Totenreich and earn rewards for reaching round milestones.

Kowakujō Directed Mode, Starting Room: Benefit from extra guidance on the Main Quest as Directed Mode comes to Kowakujō. In Starting Room, drop into the Outer Ward and survive with whatever’s on hand.

New Rogue Run Playlists: Astra Malorum arrives in Rogue Run through three new playlists offering increasingly difficult challenges, featuring Calling Card and GobbleGum rewards to help you push further in the match. Survive each wave, choose your power up, then teleport to the next area.

New Mid-Season Round-Based Map, Features: Make your stand and face the Warden in the final confrontation as the Black Ops 7 Zombies story reaches its epic conclusion in the Mid-Season. Get some much-needed assistance with a familiar Perk-a-Cola, new GobbleGum, and two more Ultra-Rarity legacy weapons.

Call of Duty: Warzone:

New Verdansk POI: The skies are alive with drones emerging from the new Drone Labs POI in Verdansk, located south of the Quarry. Explore the area’s Administrative Offices and Research and Development within two large L-shaped buildings, and fine tune your drone piloting skills in the obstacle course out back.

New Limited-Time Modes: Perfect the layout of Drone Labs in Lockdown Casual, featuring random killstreak rewards like the Juggernaut and War Machine. In Heavy Metal Heroes, push the pedal to the floor as squads engage in explosive vehicular combat.

New Gameplay Features: In the new Juggernaut Public Event, fight for possession of the infamous suit to annihilate the enemy with overwhelming firepower. Shoot down airborne Loot Drones and Buy Stations for extra gear, drop Hunter Killer Drones on the enemy with the arrival of the HKDs killstreak in Resurgence and Battle Royale, and more arriving in the Mid-Season.

Resurgence Ranked Play: Rank up and earn rewards in a new season of Ranked Play: Resurgence. Bring your best plays to increase your Skill Rating, earn exclusive rewards, and climb the Skill Divisions on your way to the top.

Across all modes:

New Weapons, Attachments: Down enemy targets with four new weapons including the FG42 Assault Rifle and the dual wield Gremlin SMG available at launch in the Battle Pass. Participate in events and Weekly Challenges to unlock the Mammoth LMG and Mace Melee weapon. New Attachments include the Jäger 45 Grid-Breaker Kit, M34 Novaline Garand Conversion, M15 Mod 0 .50 Cal Kit, and more.

New Events and Rewards: Celebrate Treyarch’s 30th anniversary, face the Machine of War, and compete for top placement in the Eidskallen Lighthouse Zombies Leaderboard to earn rewards like the Mammoth LMG plus new Weapon Blueprints, Camos, and other rewards across events arriving at launch and throughout the season.

Battle Pass and BlackCell: Unlock new Weapon Blueprints, Operator Skins, Calling Cards, Finishing Moves, Emotes, and more across a mix of free and premium tiers in the Season 05 Battle Pass. Purchase BlackCell to earn additional rewards including the exclusive “Cipher” Operator and a Mastercraft Weapon Blueprint, both featuring additional unlockable variants via in-game challenges.

Weekly Challenges: Complete Weekly Challenges throughout the season to unlock new Attachments, the Mace Melee Weapon, Camo rewards, and XP. Plus, unlock over 40 Weapon Camos earnable throughout Season 05!

New Store Offerings: New Store drops include a variety of Bundles delivering premium content including Ultra Skins, Reactive content, and Mastercraft Weapon Blueprints, including the Tracer Pack: Operation Stingray Bundle featuring the “Forced Retreat” Weapon Blueprint for the new Season 05 FG42 Assault Rifle.

Endgame:

New Assignment: Take to the roads in a bomb-rigged vehicle in the new Burn Run Assignment, challenging Operators to a race against the clock while running over enemies and objects to add valuable seconds to the timer. Stick to the path, seek out bonuses en route, and don’t let up on that gas pedal.

New Ability Boosts: Further customise your Operator with the addition of Ability Boosts, earnable primarily in Nightmare zones with a chance to drop in Zone IV. Ability Boosts add additional upgrades to your Major and Minor Abilities, from reducing their cooldown time to adding more ammo, inflicting additional damage types, and more.

Free to Play Ends Soon: Season 05 is your last chance to jump into Endgame for free with your squad. Don’t miss out!

Head to the Call of Duty blog for all the Season 05 intel.

Via: sibey-store

Ormoc, Philippines, July 14, 2026 — To cap off the Choose Your Ride nationwide campaign, Caltex in partnership with Go Rewards, awarded one lucky winner with a brand-new 2026 Toyota Fortuner. Meanwhile, 500 more participants got to take home ₱3,000 worth of fuel vouchers.

Ms. Angelina Villamor of Ormoc City, Leyte was officially presented with her vehicle of choice during a ceremonial turnover held at the Caltex station in Cogon, Ormoc. The event celebrated the successful conclusion of the promo and highlighted Caltex and Go Rewards’ ongoing partnership to deliver rewarding experiences for Filipino motorists.

The “Choose Your Ride” promo rewarded customers with raffle entries for every ₱500 fuel purchase using their Go Rewards app or card, giving them a chance to win their preferred Toyota vehicle. Customers also earned Go Rewards points, which may be redeemed for various rewards.

The awarding ceremony was attended by key representatives from Chevron Philippines Inc. (CPI) and its partners, including CPI General Manager and Country Chairman Pongtorn Tangmanuswong, First Pacific Nova Distribution Corporation (FPNDC) executives Edmund Uy and Constantino Bocanegra, Caltex Cogon retailer Erwin Brodeth, and CPI Marketing Manager Arnel Reniedo. Ms. Villamor’s sons, relatives, and station staff also joined the festivities.  

Ms. Angelina Villamor, winner of the Choose Your Ride Promo, with Caltex and FPNDC executives and Caltex Cogon Retailer.

“Through the ‘Choose Your Ride’ promotion, we aimed to give back to our customers in a meaningful way,” said Tangmanuswong. “We are pleased to see the strong participation nationwide and to personally award this prize to Ms. Villamor. This initiative reflects our continued commitment to rewarding customer loyalty while delivering the quality fuels and services Caltex is known for.”

Ms. Villamor was ecstatic upon receiving the keys to her new vehicle, celebrating the moment with her family during the awarding ceremony. She said, “I would like to thank Caltex and Go Rewards for awarding me with a new car, as now I can create more memories with my family on the road and beyond.” 

The successful rollout of the promo highlights the strong collaboration between Caltex, Go Rewards, and its retail partners across the country, as well as the brand’s continued focus on customer engagement at the station level.

As Caltex continues to strengthen customer connections, promotions like “Choose Your Ride” reinforce its commitment to delivering quality fuels alongside rewarding customer experiences. Watch out for more promos from Caltex and Go Rewards by creating your Go Rewards account today and start earning rewards on every fill-up.

Via: Sibey store

Manila, Philippines — Saviynt, a leading provider of identity security, today released major enhancements to its Agent Access Gateway — a runtime authorization layer that controls what AI agents can do as they interact with applications, data, APIs, tools, infrastructure, and other agents.

As enterprises move AI agents from experimentation into production, security teams face a new access problem. Agents can reason, adapt, and execute thousands of actions across business systems within seconds. Traditional access controls, which were designed for human users and static applications, cannot always determine whether an agent’s action is appropriate the moment it occurs.

Saviynt’s Agent Access Gateway addresses this challenge by enforcing policy at runtime. Today’s release introduces Intent-Aware Runtime Authorization (IARA), a new capability that evaluates AI agent actions in real time based on identity, context, policy, and intent. If an action falls outside approved boundaries, Saviynt can block it and generate an audit event at runtime. With IARA, organizations can protect sensitive resources from unintended or unauthorized actions.

“AI agents are becoming a new class of enterprise identity — autonomous, powerful, and capable of taking action across critical business systems,” said Vibhuti Sinha, Chief Product Officer, Saviynt. “Agent Access Gateway gives enterprises a way to control AI agent behavior at runtime, when decisions actually happen. With IARA, organizations can move beyond static permissions and make access decisions based on what an agent is trying to do, why it is doing it, and whether that action should be allowed.”

Along with IARA, Saviynt also announced expanded capabilities within its broader Identity Security for AI solution to help organizations address identity governance and security posture across the entire AI ecosystem. Agent Access Gateway now enables organizations to:

• Evaluate AI agent actions at runtime, in real-time, based on identity, context, policies, and intent
• Control an agent’s access to tools at runtime using static and dynamic policies
• Determine who an AI agent acts for by recognizing whether it carries out actions independently, on behalf of a human, or via another AI agent.

As AI agents increasingly interact with humans and other agents, governance should apply to every access. For example, a sales operations agent may be authorized to access CRM data to summarize a customer opportunity. But if that agent then attempts to export customer records, modify pricing terms, or trigger outbound communications, the critical question is whether those actions match the user’s original intent — not simply whether the agent is technically authorized to perform them. Saviynt’s intent-aware runtime enforcement is designed to identify that mismatch at runtime and prevent the action before it occurs.

The latest release also features new inbound and outbound access controls for AI agents, bringing identity governance principles to autonomous systems. Organizations can now govern who is authorized to interact with AI agents and what applications, data, and resources those agents are permitted to access. This enables enterprises to enforce least privilege, strengthen accountability, and reduce the risk of unauthorized AI actions at scale.

Saviynt’s Identity Security for AI control plane enables AI agent visibility, management, governance, and access across every layer of the stack – where they’re built, where they run, and the enterprise applications where they take action. The latest release extends Saviynt’s ecosystem of native integrations to include Microsoft Foundry, N8N, Snowflake Cortex, and more.

Additionally, Saviynt introduced new identity verification capabilities to help organizations reduce impersonation risk as AI assistance makes fraud, social engineering, and unauthorized access attempts easier to execute. New capabilities also provide high-assurance identity verification directly within the Saviynt platform for human identity certification, including biometric scanning, selfie photos, liveness detection, and support for more than 4,000 government-issued document formats across more than 177 countries.

Together, these capabilities help organizations address two of the most urgent AI-related security challenges facing enterprises today: controlling agent access at runtime and reducing identity impersonation risk.

Saviynt will demonstrate Saviynt Agent Access Gateway, including IARA, as well as owner recommendation for lifecycle governance, and identity verification capabilities at Identiverse. Attendees can visit Saviynt at booth 501 to see how Saviynt helps enterprises control agent access at runtime and strengthen identity assurance across the AI ecosystem. A free trial of Saviynt’s Identity Security for AI product is available here.

About Saviynt

Saviynt is a leading provider of identity security solutions that help organizations secure and govern access for all identities across the enterprise. The Saviynt platform enables organizations to manage identity governance, application access, privileged access, external identities, non-human identities, and AI agents through a unified, intelligent platform. Saviynt helps customers reduce risk, strengthen compliance, and enable secure digital transformation at enterprise scale.

For more information, visit www.saviynt.com.

Via: sibey-store

MANILA, Philippines — From house parties and weekend hangouts to karaoke nights and outdoor get-togethers, music has a way of turning ordinary moments into shared experiences. With the new LG xboom Stage 501, LG Electronics Philippines brings together powerful sound, smart AI features, and flexible party-ready design in one speaker built to move with every kind of celebration.

The LG xboom Stage 501 is designed for people who want more than background music. It delivers a fuller entertainment experience through xboom Signature Sound refined by will.i.am, AI-powered sound and lighting features, karaoke-ready controls, and a portable form made for different spaces and party setups.

Mr. Yongwoo Park, Media Solutions Product Director, LG Electronics Philippines,” said, “The LG xboom Stage 501 was made for people who want their music to feel more alive, when they are hosting at home, singing with friends, or bringing the party outdoors. With signature sound, AI-powered features, flexible placement, and long playtime, it gives users the freedom to create their own stage wherever the moment takes them.”

xboom Signature Sound, refined by will.i.am

At the heart of the LG xboom Stage 501 is xboom Signature Sound, refined by will.i.am. Drawing on his expertise in music and technology, will.i.am professionally refined xboom’s sound to achieve greater balance and a warmer tone. The result is powerful, bold sound with clarity and control, designed to elevate every party and make each moment feel personal.

The speaker also carries Peerless heritage, with premium drivers developed with Peerless, a century-old Danish audio manufacturer known for high-end acoustic engineering. Two 5.25-inch woofers deliver controlled low-end impact, while dual 2.5-inch full-range units help maintain clarity, working together to fill party-scale spaces with powerful, well-balanced sound.

Turn any song into karaoke with AI

For music lovers who want to do more than listen, the LG xboom Stage 501 makes karaoke easier and more spontaneous. Its AI Karaoke Master separation transforms any track into karaoke, allowing users to control vocal level and pitch in real time.

With the dedicated AI Karaoke Control Knob, users can move from original vocals to instrumental-only playback with just a press, making it easier to start a sing-along without needing an app. For casual after-dinner sessions, barkada karaoke nights, or full party moments, the LG xboom Stage 501 helps turn favorite songs into instant performances.

Smart sound and lighting for every vibe

The LG xboom Stage 501 also features AI Sound for music and voice clarity. Its AI algorithm analyzes audio content in real time to adjust EQ profiles, balancing bass for music playback and enhancing clarity for podcasts or news.

The experience is made even more dynamic with AI lighting that syncs with music. The speaker analyzes different genres and adjusts the lighting to match the playlist, while dual-bar lighting adds vibrant colors to the party. When the mood calls for voice, melody, or rhythm, the LG xboom Stage 501 helps set the atmosphere visually and sonically.

Tailored sound with Space Calibration Pro

Different spaces call for different sound. With Space Calibration Pro, the LG xboom Stage 501 uses automatic EQ recalibration through a built-in gyro sensor to help ensure optimal sound in any environment.

Placed indoors or outdoors, the speaker adapts to its surroundings to maintain clear, vibrant sound across different venues. This makes it suitable for living rooms, balconies, open areas, and other gathering spaces where sound needs to feel full and balanced.

Flexible design that follows the party

The LG xboom Stage 501 is built to fit the way people gather. Its Signature Stage Design supports four mounting modes: horizontal type, tilt type, vertical type, and pole type. Each mode is engineered to deliver clear sound and optimized coverage, allowing users to shape the party setup based on the space.

The speaker also features one-hand portability through an easy grip handle that supports both horizontal and vertical carrying. With optimized internal design, the LG xboom Stage 501 is made to move quickly and easily from one setup to another, bringing party-scale sound wherever it is needed.

Built for long gatherings, indoors and outdoors

Designed for long-lasting party sessions, the LG xboom Stage 501 offers up to 25 hours of playtime. Its 99Wh super-capacity replaceable battery allows quick swaps, helping make long party sessions easier to manage.

The speaker is also IPX4 water-resistant, designed to handle splashes and light exposure. This makes it suitable for outdoor gatherings and water-side moments, letting users focus on the party instead of worrying about the environment.

For larger gatherings, the L- xboom Stage 501 supports Auracast audio broadcasting for multi-speaker connection. Using Bluetooth LE Audio, Auracast broadcasts audio to multiple speakers at once, expanding sound coverage and creating a unified listening zone for group gatherings.

A speaker built for every stage

With xboom Signature Sound refined by will.i.am, Peerless-developed drivers, AI-powered karaoke, Space Calibration Pro, AI lighting, flexible placement, long playtime, IPX4 water resistance, and Auracast multi-speaker support, the LG xboom Stage 501 is made for people who want their music to travel with them.

From home celebrations to outdoor hangouts, from karaoke nights to full-on dance sessions, the LG xboom Stage 501 helps users bring their own stage anywhere.

To learn more about LG xboom and other LG innovations, visit lg.com/ph.

Via: sibey-store

MANILA, Philippines — From house parties and weekend hangouts to karaoke nights and outdoor get-togethers, music has a way of turning ordinary moments into shared experiences. With the new LG xboom Stage 501, LG Electronics Philippines brings together powerful sound, smart AI features, and flexible party-ready design in one speaker built to move with every kind of celebration.

The LG xboom Stage 501 is designed for people who want more than background music. It delivers a fuller entertainment experience through xboom Signature Sound refined by will.i.am, AI-powered sound and lighting features, karaoke-ready controls, and a portable form made for different spaces and party setups.

Mr. Yongwoo Park, Media Solutions Product Director, LG Electronics Philippines,” said, “The LG xboom Stage 501 was made for people who want their music to feel more alive, when they are hosting at home, singing with friends, or bringing the party outdoors. With signature sound, AI-powered features, flexible placement, and long playtime, it gives users the freedom to create their own stage wherever the moment takes them.”

xboom Signature Sound, refined by will.i.am

At the heart of the LG xboom Stage 501 is xboom Signature Sound, refined by will.i.am. Drawing on his expertise in music and technology, will.i.am professionally refined xboom’s sound to achieve greater balance and a warmer tone. The result is powerful, bold sound with clarity and control, designed to elevate every party and make each moment feel personal.

The speaker also carries Peerless heritage, with premium drivers developed with Peerless, a century-old Danish audio manufacturer known for high-end acoustic engineering. Two 5.25-inch woofers deliver controlled low-end impact, while dual 2.5-inch full-range units help maintain clarity, working together to fill party-scale spaces with powerful, well-balanced sound.

Turn any song into karaoke with AI

For music lovers who want to do more than listen, the LG xboom Stage 501 makes karaoke easier and more spontaneous. Its AI Karaoke Master separation transforms any track into karaoke, allowing users to control vocal level and pitch in real time.

With the dedicated AI Karaoke Control Knob, users can move from original vocals to instrumental-only playback with just a press, making it easier to start a sing-along without needing an app. For casual after-dinner sessions, barkada karaoke nights, or full party moments, the LG xboom Stage 501 helps turn favorite songs into instant performances.

Smart sound and lighting for every vibe

The LG xboom Stage 501 also features AI Sound for music and voice clarity. Its AI algorithm analyzes audio content in real time to adjust EQ profiles, balancing bass for music playback and enhancing clarity for podcasts or news.

The experience is made even more dynamic with AI lighting that syncs with music. The speaker analyzes different genres and adjusts the lighting to match the playlist, while dual-bar lighting adds vibrant colors to the party. When the mood calls for voice, melody, or rhythm, the LG xboom Stage 501 helps set the atmosphere visually and sonically.

Tailored sound with Space Calibration Pro

Different spaces call for different sound. With Space Calibration Pro, the LG xboom Stage 501 uses automatic EQ recalibration through a built-in gyro sensor to help ensure optimal sound in any environment.

Placed indoors or outdoors, the speaker adapts to its surroundings to maintain clear, vibrant sound across different venues. This makes it suitable for living rooms, balconies, open areas, and other gathering spaces where sound needs to feel full and balanced.

Flexible design that follows the party

The LG xboom Stage 501 is built to fit the way people gather. Its Signature Stage Design supports four mounting modes: horizontal type, tilt type, vertical type, and pole type. Each mode is engineered to deliver clear sound and optimized coverage, allowing users to shape the party setup based on the space.

The speaker also features one-hand portability through an easy grip handle that supports both horizontal and vertical carrying. With optimized internal design, the LG xboom Stage 501 is made to move quickly and easily from one setup to another, bringing party-scale sound wherever it is needed.

Built for long gatherings, indoors and outdoors

Designed for long-lasting party sessions, the LG xboom Stage 501 offers up to 25 hours of playtime. Its 99Wh super-capacity replaceable battery allows quick swaps, helping make long party sessions easier to manage.

The speaker is also IPX4 water-resistant, designed to handle splashes and light exposure. This makes it suitable for outdoor gatherings and water-side moments, letting users focus on the party instead of worrying about the environment.

For larger gatherings, the L- xboom Stage 501 supports Auracast audio broadcasting for multi-speaker connection. Using Bluetooth LE Audio, Auracast broadcasts audio to multiple speakers at once, expanding sound coverage and creating a unified listening zone for group gatherings.

A speaker built for every stage

With xboom Signature Sound refined by will.i.am, Peerless-developed drivers, AI-powered karaoke, Space Calibration Pro, AI lighting, flexible placement, long playtime, IPX4 water resistance, and Auracast multi-speaker support, the LG xboom Stage 501 is made for people who want their music to travel with them.

From home celebrations to outdoor hangouts, from karaoke nights to full-on dance sessions, the LG xboom Stage 501 helps users bring their own stage anywhere.

To learn more about LG xboom and other LG innovations, visit lg.com/ph.

Via: sibey-store

The retail industry is entering one of the most transformative periods in its history.

Artificial intelligence is changing how consumers discover products. Customer expectations continue to evolve. Supply chains are becoming more interconnected and complex. Digital technologies are redefining business operations. New brands are disrupting established players, while retailers across the Philippines face a common challenge:

How do you stay relevant in a world that refuses to stand still?

For business owners, retail executives, entrepreneurs, marketers, technology providers, and decision-makers, the answers may be found at the 32nd National Retail Conference and Expo (NRCE 2026), happening on August 6–7, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center Manila.

Organized by the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA), this year’s event carries special significance as the organization celebrates its 50th Anniversary, marking five decades of leadership, advocacy, and service to the Philippine retail industry.

With the theme “New. Next. Forward.”, NRCE 2026 serves as both a celebration of the industry’s achievements and a roadmap for navigating the future.

More than a conference, it is where the country’s retail leaders come together to exchange ideas, discover innovations, build partnerships, and prepare for what’s next.

A Golden Milestone for Philippine Retail

The year 2026 marks a historic milestone for the Philippine Retailers Association.

For fifty years, PRA has championed the interests of retailers, helping businesses navigate economic shifts, industry disruptions, changing consumer behavior, and emerging technologies. Through advocacy, education, networking, and industry development initiatives, PRA has played a pivotal role in shaping modern Philippine retail.

As the organization celebrates its Golden Anniversary, NRCE 2026 becomes more than an annual gathering.

It becomes a reflection of how far Philippine retail has come—and an opportunity to define where it is headed next.

At a time when businesses are adapting to rapid technological change and evolving customer expectations, PRA’s 50th year serves as a reminder that resilience, innovation, and collaboration remain the foundations of long-term growth.

Opening Keynotes from Global Retail and Supply Chain Leaders

Setting the tone for this year’s conference are two distinguished Opening Keynote Speakers whose careers have helped shape retail and commerce across Asia and beyond.

V.P. Sharma: Building One of Southeast Asia’s Retail Giants

One of the most anticipated speakers at NRCE 2026 is V.P. Sharma, Founder and Group CEO of MAP Group Indonesia.

Widely regarded as one of Asia’s most accomplished retail entrepreneurs, Sharma transformed MAP Group from a single retail operation into a regional powerhouse with thousands of locations and a portfolio of globally recognized brands.

His keynote is expected to offer invaluable lessons on leadership, customer-centricity, sustainable growth, organizational resilience, and long-term business building.

In an era often focused on short-term results, Sharma’s journey demonstrates the power of vision, discipline, and consistent execution.

Joseph Phi: Reimagining the Future of Global Commerce

Joining Sharma as a Keynote Speaker is Joseph Phi, Group CEO of Li & Fung, one of the world’s most influential supply chain and sourcing companies.

With decades of experience leading global commerce, supply chain transformation, and operational innovation, Phi brings a unique perspective on how retailers can remain competitive in an increasingly interconnected world.

As supply chains continue to evolve amid shifting consumer demands and global market dynamics, his insights are expected to provide attendees with practical strategies for building agility, resilience, and long-term growth.

Together, Sharma and Phi represent two critical pillars of modern retail success: customer-centric retail leadership and world-class supply chain excellence.

Why NRCE Matters More Than Ever

Retail today extends far beyond products and physical stores.

Success now depends on understanding customers across multiple touchpoints, leveraging data effectively, embracing innovation, strengthening supply chains, adopting new technologies, and creating memorable customer experiences.

The organizations that thrive over the next decade will not necessarily be the largest.

They will be the most adaptable.

NRCE 2026 brings together some of the most influential minds in retail, marketing, leadership, technology, logistics, venture capital, and innovation to help businesses understand and navigate these changes.

Over two days, attendees will gain access to keynote presentations, expert-led discussions, case studies, networking opportunities, and a world-class retail expo showcasing solutions that are transforming the industry.

Leadership Remains the Ultimate Competitive Advantage

Technology may be changing the way businesses operate, but leadership remains one of the most important differentiators in any organization.

This is why NRCE 2026 welcomes Louie Banta, CEO and Chief Training Consultant of Learning Just Made Better, Inc.

Having trained leaders across 24 countries and worked with more than 500 organizations worldwide, Banta brings decades of expertise in leadership development, organizational effectiveness, and people transformation.

His session is expected to provide practical insights on leading through uncertainty, building resilient teams, managing change, and creating cultures that thrive in dynamic environments.

Making Sense of AI for Retail

Few topics are generating as much discussion in business today as artificial intelligence.

Retailers understand that AI is changing the landscape, but many continue to ask the same question:

Where do we start?

NRCE 2026 addresses this challenge through a practical session led by RJ Paculan, Managing Director of TBWA\SMP, and Paolo Broma, Chief Marketing Officer of TBWA\SMP.

Rather than focusing on technical jargon, their discussion will explore practical applications of AI, automation, generative search, customer engagement, content creation, and workflow optimization.

Their message is simple: successful AI adoption starts with understanding business problems first and applying the right technologies to solve them.

The future belongs not to organizations that merely understand AI, but to those that know how to apply it effectively.

Understanding the New Customer

Customer expectations continue to evolve at an unprecedented pace.

Retailers today have access to more data than ever before, yet many still struggle to convert information into meaningful action.

This is where Sunita Howe, Head of Marketing for Southeast Asia and India at Meltwater, brings valuable insight.

Her expertise in media intelligence, customer analytics, and brand growth offers retailers a deeper understanding of how data-driven decision-making can strengthen customer engagement, improve marketing performance, and create sustainable competitive advantages.

Investing in the Next Generation of Retail

Innovation often begins long before a company becomes successful.

It starts with identifying opportunities before they become obvious.

That perspective makes Joan Yao, General Partner at Kickstart Ventures, one of the conference’s most anticipated speakers.

Having invested in transformative companies including Xendit, Pickup Coffee, Kumu, Edamama, and Sprout, Yao brings firsthand experience in identifying emerging trends and helping businesses scale.

Her session will provide valuable insights into innovation, entrepreneurship, startup ecosystems, and the future of Southeast Asian business.

Beyond the Stage: A Complete Retail Innovation Ecosystem

NRCE 2026 extends beyond conference sessions.

The event’s expo floor will feature technology providers, retail solution companies, logistics partners, customer engagement platforms, service providers, and innovators from across the region.

Attendees will have opportunities to:

• Discover emerging retail technologies
• Explore AI-powered business solutions
• Learn about customer engagement innovations
• Evaluate logistics and fulfillment platforms
• Connect with suppliers and technology partners
• Build strategic business relationships
• Explore new growth opportunities

For many participants, the connections made during NRCE become just as valuable as the insights shared on stage.

Why You Should Attend NRCE 2026

Whether you are a retailer, entrepreneur, startup founder, investor, marketer, technology provider, supply chain executive, or business leader, the issues being discussed at NRCE directly impact your future success.

Artificial intelligence.

Customer experience.

Leadership.

Innovation.

Supply chain transformation.

Data-driven decision-making.

Business growth.

These are no longer future considerations.

They are today’s realities.

The organizations that understand these shifts earliest often gain the greatest competitive advantage.

Be Part of What’s Next

As the Philippine Retailers Association celebrates its 50th year, NRCE 2026 promises to be one of the most significant gatherings in the event’s history.

It is where industry leaders come together to learn, connect, innovate, and prepare for the future.

The future of retail will not be shaped by those who wait for change.

It will be shaped by those who help create it.

Event Details

August 6–7, 2026
SMX Convention Center Manila
Register now: www.nrce-ph.com

The Future of Retail Starts Here

New technologies are emerging.

New customer expectations are forming.

New opportunities are waiting.

The question is simple:

Will your business be ready for what’s next?

Join thousands of retailers, innovators, entrepreneurs, and decision-makers at NRCE 2026 and become part of the movement shaping the future of Philippine retail.

New. Next. Forward.

“We’re proud of how our napakalaki, napakasulit Chicken McDo has a growing following among our kababayans. To give them more reasons to love Chicken McDo, we’re launching new combinations that give more fill and more satisfaction with more protein and more choices,” said Celina Lagandaon, McDonald’s Philippines Marketing Director.

New meals, more ways to enjoy Chicken McDo

McDonald’s Philippines is introducing two new Chicken McDo Meals: 1-pc. Chicken McDo with Crispy Chicken Fillet and Drink, and 1-pc. Chicken McDo with Mushroom Pepper Steak and Drink. Both priced starting at PHP 158, these new offers are complete meals that are unmistakably filling. These are napakasulit offers that serve the napakalaki Chicken McDo while adding exciting variety with the addition of extra protein.

“We continuously listen to our customers and these new options are our answer to feedback for Chicken McDo meals na mas nakakabusog at mas maraming choices while remaining napakasulit,” added Lagandaon.

Beloved Chicken McDo combos still available

Aside from the new offers, fans and customers can still enjoy other napakalaki at napakasulit Chicken McDo offers. The 1-pc Chicken McDo with rice and regular drink is still great value for money starting at P99. For rice lovers, there’s the 1-pc Chicken McDo with double rice and regular drink. And there’s the sweet offers for those with a sweet tooth: the 1-pc Chicken McDo with rice, regular drink, and Sundae Cone, as well as the 1-pc Chicken McDo with rice and Coke McFloat.

Customers and fans can try the new napakalaki at napakasulit Chicken McDo offers via dine-in, take-out, drive-thru, or delivery via McDelivery, GrabFood, and foodpanda.

For more information about McDonald’s Philippines, visit www.mcdonalds.com.ph, McDo.ph on Facebook, @mcdo_ph on Instagram, and @McDo_PH on X. 

Via: sibey-store

Globe continues to advance digital inclusion in Western Visayas through initiatives that strengthen connectivity and resiliency in Aklan and Antique, helping communities, businesses, and public institutions thrive in an increasingly digital world.

In a multi-sectoral dialogue with Senator Loren Legarda and local government leaders, Globe shared plans to enhance network infrastructure, expand broadband access, and support long-term development priorities across the two provinces. The meeting also provided an opportunity to discuss initiatives aimed at improving network reliability, expanding broadband access, and strengthening connectivity during emergencies and service disruptions.

As part of its 2026 roadmap, Globe is rolling out network enhancements designed to improve mobile coverage, increase data capacity, and deliver a better digital experience for residents, enterprises, schools, healthcare facilities, and government offices throughout Aklan and Antique.

Globe’s network footprint in Aklan and Antique continues to support the provinces’ growing digital needs. In Aklan, Globe operates more than 100 sites that provide coverage across all 17 municipalities, reaching 72% of the province’s population. Malay, home to Boracay Island, already has access to 5G connectivity, while Fiber-to-the-Home infrastructure is available in 10 municipalities, helping deliver faster and more reliable broadband services to homes and communities.

In Antique, Globe operates more than 80 sites that provide coverage across all 18 municipalities and reach 74% of residents. San Jose already enjoys 5G connectivity, while Fiber-to-the-Home infrastructure is available in 12 municipalities, supporting greater access to digital services for education, business, public service delivery, and everyday communication.

Globe is also expanding Fiber-to-the-Home services to bring faster and more dependable internet access to more households, enabling families to participate more fully in online learning, remote work, digital commerce, and other essential online activities.

Globe’s ongoing growth in network modernization supports its broader goal of expanding digital access and improving connectivity for communities across the Philippines. In Aklan and Antique, these efforts are focused on providing more reliable services that enable education, business, government operations, and everyday communication.

During the discussion, Senator Loren Legarda emphasized that reliable electricity and internet connectivity are vital to inclusive local development. She highlighted the outcomes of a multi-sector briefing with the Aklan Information and Communications Technology Council, the National Electrification Administration (NEA), the Department of Energy (DOE), the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), and the Antique and Aklan electric cooperatives to address service interruptions and advance critical power infrastructure projects. Legarda also noted commitments from local governments and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to support a more enabling environment for telecommunications investments and expand internet access in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas. 

Recognizing the growing need for reliable communications during extreme weather events and power interruptions, Globe also highlighted its collaboration with Starlink to strengthen network resiliency. The initiative is expected to provide additional connectivity support in areas where traditional infrastructure may be affected by outages or natural disasters, helping communities remain connected when communication matters most.

These efforts align with Globe’s broader mission of ensuring that every Filipino can participate in the digital economy, regardless of location. Reliable connectivity plays a critical role in education, livelihood generation, public service delivery, disaster preparedness, and community development, particularly in geographically dispersed areas.

“Connectivity is a powerful enabler of economic growth, social inclusion, and community resilience. By strengthening our network, expanding broadband access, and investing in solutions that keep people connected during critical situations, we are helping build stronger communities and opening more opportunities for every Filipino. We are grateful for the support of Senator Loren Legarda and our local government partners as we work together toward a more digitally empowered future for Aklan and Antique,” said Darius Jose Delgado, Chief Commercial Officer of Globe.

Working alongside government partners, Globe continues to support efforts that expand digital access, strengthen resiliency, and unlock more opportunities for communities across Aklan and Antique. Through sustained collaboration, Globe aims to help create a more connected, resilient, and future-ready Western Visayas.

For more information about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.

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“During this time when prices are on the rise, it is important to be smarter with our choices — from choosing the right appliances to using them more efficiently. Habit changes, no matter how small, can eventually lead to bigger savings and we all need to do that during these times,” said Cherish Ong-Chua, VP for Finance and Marketing of Hanabishi Appliances.

Below, Hanabishi shares how we can use our appliances more efficiently, hence lowering our power consumption and even prolonging our appliances’ life.

1. Avoid incorrect fan size and placement.

Fans are the go-to appliances of many Filipino families to stay cool as they consume less electricity and are far simpler to use than AC units. However, not many of us know how to best use them. For example, did you know that the right size matters for your fan to work more efficiently? Desk fans would hardly work in a medium or bigger-sized room. Stand fans would be a better choice as they can help circulate air more efficiently in a bigger room. If you’re looking to buy a new one for your home, there’s the Hanabishi Stand Fan with DC Motor HDC 16WHT can give you up to 40% energy savings.

To further a fan’s cooling function, place them in areas that would allow them to circulate air across the room. Placing them near open windows would also help.

2. Use coolers as alternatives to AC units. 

For those who want something stronger than a fan but still energy-efficient, the Hanabishi Air Cooler HAC900 is a great alternative. Air coolers use water evaporation to lower temperatures, consuming far less electricity than traditional AC units, and this Hanabishi product has a 10-liter water tank capacity, honeycomb filter, and ionizer that can deliver up to 12.5 m/s wind speeds. It also comes with a remote controller and has a built-in 24-hour timer. For an even cooler air, you can place ice in the water tank.

3. Pair your AC unit with a fan or cooler.

If you really need to keep your air-conditioning on, you can cut costs by running a fan or an air cooler alongside it. If you have a bigger room, choose a tower fan for better cooling efficiency. The added airflow helps circulate the cold more evenly, so that your room cools faster and your AC unit doesn’t have to work harder or longer.

4. Choose refrigerators with inverter technology.

Another appliance that we can’t do without is the refrigerator. It runs 24/7, so choosing an energy-efficient model is crucial. The Hanabishi Double Door Refrigerator HADDREF78SSINV is designed with inverter technology, which adjusts power consumption based on cooling demand. This also helps preserve food more consistently.

5. Avoid overloading your refrigerator.

Refrigerators perform best when the air inside them can circulate freely, so packing them too tightly can block airflow. This also makes them work harder, driving up your electricity consumption and increase your monthly bill, so keep items organized and properly spaced.

6. Use cooking appliances with less energy waste.

Induction technology heats cookware faster, reducing cooking time. This means that you use less electricity compared to traditional electric or gas stoves. If you don’t have an induction cooker in your kitchen yet, the Hanabishi Twin Induction Cooker HIC400TWIN would be a good investment as it provides 80% more cooking efficiency.

Another energy-saving cooking appliance is the rice cooker, which has a low power consumption. Make sure that you choose a reliable model, though, to ensure consistent performance. A great option is the Hanabishi White Jar Type Rice Cooker 1.8L HJC18WHT, which has a 1.8-liter capacity that can serve up to 10 persons. You can also maximize its use by cooking dishes other than rice in it. You can search for recipes using the rice cooker online.

7. Regularly clean your appliances.

Dust and grease can build up on your appliances over time, reducing their efficiency and making them work harder. This extra effort increases electricity consumption and leads to higher utility bills, so make sure you keep your fans, air coolers, refrigerators, and cooking appliances free of dirt all the time.

“Energy efficiency is about doing things smarter and consistently. With a few simple habit changes, you can keep your utility bills under control,” Ong-Chua stressed.

To learn more about Hanabishi Appliances, visit www.myhanabishi.com, and follow its official social media accounts.

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ILOILO CITY, PHILIPPINES — Rooted in a deep appreciation for Iloilo’s rich sports heritage and driven by a vision for the future, Filinvest Land, in partnership with the Philippine Football Federation, officially broke ground on the Iloilo Centrale Football Pitch. Located right at the heart of the township, this 9-a-side football pitch marks a major milestone in reintroducing Iloilo Centrale as a vibrant, lifestyle-driven destination.

More than a ceremonial launch, the groundbreaking highlights the township’s vision of building an integrated, future-ready community that promotes active, modern living. Inspired by legendary football stories of passion, perseverance, and humble beginnings, this initiative reflects a fierce commitment to preparing and empowering the next generation of Ilonggo athletes.

Sports Infrastructure and Technical Highlights

The upcoming sports facility is meticulously engineered to offer a space built for grassroots development, youth tournaments, and local leagues. Strategically located, the pitch directly anchors Iloilo Centrale’s vibrant 1.6-hectare commercial block, serving as an accessible recreational landmark for residents of Futura Rise and the broader community.

Engineered for all-weather play, the pitch will feature an artificial turf, ensuring a durable, consistent, and safe playing surface capable of handling continuous training and year-round matches. To comfortably accommodate match plays and community programs, the development features spectator bleachers and night lighting to allow for evening matches and after-work leagues.

The sports zone further enriches the master-planned township’s active philosophy, standing alongside an expansive open lawn within the commercial development.

“Iloilo is an undisputed football country; the passion for the sport is woven deeply into our culture,” said Mr. Louie Carandang, Filinvest Land Visayas, VP and Visayas Regional General Manager. “With this football pitch, we aren’t just laying down turf—we are establishing a sanctuary where local talent can be discovered, honed, and elevated. We are immensely proud to build a space that honors our roots while giving our future athletes the platform they deserve to excel on the national and global stage.”

Through this development, Iloilo Centrale continues to set itself apart from traditional master-planned areas by creating meaningful spaces that blend athletic excellence with everyday lifestyle needs.

“Our goal for Iloilo Centrale has always been to build a township that breathes life into the aspirations of the community,” shared Gerard Marcelo, Filinvest Land FVP and Residential Township Head. “This partnership with the PFF allows us to anchor our township in shared values of wellness and unity. The football pitch will be the beating heart of a dynamic hub where sports, modern lifestyle, and sustainable community engagement seamlessly come together.”

The collaboration with the Philippine Football Federation ensures that the facility complies with standard specifications conducive to grassroots development programs, youth tournaments, and rigorous training sessions.

“The Philippine Football Federation is thrilled to partner with Filinvest Land in this monumental undertaking,” stated Mr. Johnny Gutierrez, PFF President. “True grassroots football development relies heavily on accessibility and quality infrastructure. By bringing a dedicated football pitch to the center of Iloilo Centrale, we are expanding our reach and ensuring that the future generation of football players has the right environment to foster their discipline and love for the game.”

Members of the Leganes Football Club take part in the groundbreaking ceremony for the 

Iloilo Centrale Football Field.

The groundbreaking of the football field accelerates the development of Iloilo Centrale, signaling a vibrant future for its primary residential component, Futura Rise. This exclusive, modern Spanish-themed walk-up condominium community offers a low-density, wellness-centered lifestyle where everyday essentials are within walking distance.

By integrating residential spaces with active lifestyle amenities, Filinvest Land is transforming the 11.4-hectare estate into Metro Iloilo’s next economic and recreational heartbeat. As construction begins, the Iloilo Centrale Football Field stands as a testament to local heritage meeting forward-looking community development—proudly shaping the future of Iloilo, one goal at a time.

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