It's Me, Gracee: Lifestyle

Keep moving no matter the condition: Shop your MOVE IT Ride-Ready essentials on GrabMart

Lifestyle Friday, July 31, 2026

Clear skies at 7:00 in the morning, wet and windy by 5:00 PM in the afternoon. The rainy season does not negotiate with anyone’s calendar, and for the professionals who have moved to motorcycle-taxis to protect their schedule, the distance between leaving and arriving has become a gamble on how they turn up.

MOVE IT launched Ride-Ready, a line of commuter essentials built for that gap. Now available exclusively on GrabMart, the range includes a packable rain jacket, a scarf or cap that doubles as a helmet liner, and a refresh kit with travel-size alcohol spray, cooling wipes, and tissue.

The launch comes at a time when motorcycle-taxis have become indispensable to the daily grind. While MOVE IT recorded a 20% growth in monthly users during the first half of the year compared to last year, commuter feedback highlighted lingering hesitations to booking a ride like sudden downpours and scorching heat, along with concerns about shared helmet conditions.

“Filipino commuters have become extraordinarily good at adapting to city life. What they should not have to accept is arriving at a meeting soaked, or starting the afternoon already behind,” says MOVE IT General Manager Wayne Jacinto. “Ride-Ready is a practical answer to that. We want our passengers to step off the ride the same way they left the house.”

MOVE IT also brought Ride-Ready into the busy commercial districts where many of its passengers work. Interactive booths ran at select office buildings in Makati, Bonifacio Global City, Ortigas, and Cebu City from June to July, where commuters claimed Ride-Ready items on site and booked their next trip from the booth.

As the rainy season and worsening traffic remain major concerns for commuters, MOVE IT's Ride-Ready essentials make every journey easier and more comfortable. By equipping passengers with the right tools, MOVE IT empowers them to keep moving no matter the condition—ensuring they step off their ride fresh, confident, and ready to face the day ahead.

The Ride-Ready range is available on GrabMart starting July 13. Prices start at P275, with special bundles that mix and match essentials for more savings. Details are on MOVE IT’s official social media channels.

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Fast-Forward to Your Next Era with Up to ₱400,000 from Maya Personal Loan

Lifestyle Wednesday, July 29, 2026

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Manila Water expands sewer coverage in Pasig to advance public health

Lifestyle Tuesday, July 28, 2026

Manila Water’s newly completed Sta. Monica sewer network and lift station projects expand sanitation coverage in Pasig City, conveying wastewater to treatment facilities such as the Ilugin Sewage Treatment Plant and helping protect public health and nearby waterways.

Manila Water continues to expand its sewer and sanitation coverage with the completion of the North Pasig Package 2 Sta. Monica Network and Lift Station Projects, helping ensure safer, cleaner, and more sustainable communities across its East Zone concession.

The newly completed facilities form part of the North and South Pasig Sewerage System under Manila Water’s Three River Masterplan, a long-term program that supports the rehabilitation of the Pasig-Marikina-San Juan River System while improving access to reliable sanitation services for customers.

The Sta. Monica Network Project includes a 0.165-kilometer gravity main and a 1.38-kilometer force main, with pipe depths ranging from 2 to 5 meters and pipe sizes between 250 and 400 millimeters. These were constructed using open-cut excavation methods to safely and efficiently install critical sewer infrastructure.

A pipe jointing activity of North Pasig Package 2 Sta. Monica Network and Lift Station Projects

More importantly, the project brings significant benefits to communities by helping protect public health and improve overall quality of life. By collecting wastewater from households and conveying it to proper treatment facilities, the system reduces the risk of contamination, minimizes exposure to waterborne pollutants, and supports cleaner neighborhoods. It also plays a vital role in preventing untreated wastewater from flowing into creeks and rivers, helping sustain aquatic ecosystems and restore waterways that communities rely on.

Once fully operational, the broader North and South Pasig Sewerage System is expected to serve around 652,000 residents across Pasig City and parts of Quezon City, Mandaluyong City, Taytay, and Cainta, Rizal. In Pasig City alone, the system will cover about 60 percent of the area, significantly expanding access to safe and reliable sanitation services.

Collected wastewater will be conveyed to the Ilugin Sewage Treatment Plant, where it will undergo proper treatment before discharge to comply with Department of Environment and Natural Resources standards for Class C water quality, making it suitable for aquatic life and contributing to cleaner rivers that can support recreational uses such as boating and fishing.

“By expanding access to proper wastewater treatment, we help ensure that more communities benefit from cleaner surroundings, reduced health risks, and waterways that can sustain life and support future generations," Manila Water Corporate Communications Department Head Dittie Galang said.

The project supports national and local environmental goals, including the Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004, the Supreme Court Mandamus on Manila Bay rehabilitation, and ongoing initiatives of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority. It also aligns with Pasig City’s push toward a greener and more environmentally responsible urban environment.

As Manila Water works toward full sanitation coverage in the East Zone, investments in sewerage infrastructure remain a priority. By expanding sewer networks, the company helps ensure that more households are connected to safe wastewater services, reinforcing its commitment to public health, environmental protection, and the long-term recovery of the country’s vital river systems.

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Home Credit employees rally to rebuild a school in typhoon-hit Catanduanes

Home Credit Monday, July 27, 2026

Reinforcing our commitment to drive meaningful impact through community service, Home Credit Philippines partnered with international disaster relief non-profit organizations All Hands & Hearts and Happy Hearts Czech to rebuild and rehabilitate the typhoon-hit Salvacion Elementary School in Caramoran. For a region that is hit by severe typhoons annually, this service comes as a vital aid for students who face post-disaster health hazards like dengue and leptospirosis often delaying their return to school, compounding the severe trauma, fatigue, and absenteeism.

Demonstrating a strong sense of community and bayanihan, a team of 16 Home Credit executives and team members volunteered on-site, to rebuild and renovate 4 classrooms and vital facilities at Salvacion Elementary School, directly benefiting 128 students and 9 school personnel. The team worked on construction efforts including roofing preparations, wall installation, repair and plastering handwashing stations across the school. The reconstruction and rehabilitation project is expected to officially conclude by July 2026.

“Young students are our future leaders, and we deeply care for their well-being. By building safer, more supportive spaces, we are humbled to play a small part in improving their learning experience,” Jana Pechouckova, Home Credit’s Senior Executive Vice President for Philippines shared. “It was incredibly rewarding to see our employees unite with such a profound spirit of volunteerism and community service as they actively participated in this initiative.”

Alongside infrastructure redevelopment, our team also played an active role in delivering specialized mental health awareness training to affected students, ensuring their holistic well-being.

“The All Hands & Hearts team appreciates the efforts Home Credit Philippines has poured into this project. Without a socially responsible organization like Home Credit, rebuilding a community like this is not possible. We look forward to the long-term impact of this initiative enabling a brighter future for our students,” Honey Araza, Program Director, All Hands & Hearts.

“These new facilities give our students a safe space where learning never pauses, even when the storm season arrives. We express our gratitude to Home Credit, All Hands & Hearts, Happy Hearts Czech, and all the partners and volunteers who made this possible,' said Ms. Lorie A.Banta, Principal of Salvacion Elementary School.

For the latest updates from Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website, www.homecredit.ph, or follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts. Customers may likewise download the Home Credit App to get pre-approved, available on Google Play, the App Store, and HUAWEI AppGallery.

Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

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Why Today's Filipino Workers Are Looking Beyond Salary

InLife Saturday, July 25, 2026

For many Filipinos, work has always been about more than just earning a living. It is about providing for loved ones, building a better future, and creating a sense of security for the people who matter most. Today, however, the way employees evaluate job opportunities is evolving. While salary remains an important consideration, many are increasingly looking beyond compensation such as healthcare access, family protection, financial security, work-life balance, and overall well-being.

Recent studies suggest this shift is becoming more pronounced. Aon's 2025 Human Capital Employee Sentiment Study found 64% of Filipino employees are considering changing employers within the next year, highlighting the growing importance of creating a workplace experience that goes beyond a paycheck.

Looking for more than a paycheck

For many employees, the priorities are deeply personal. While competitive pay remains important, many today are thinking beyond their next paycheck. They are looking for employers that can support them through different stages of life and provide greater peace of mind for themselves and their families.

For some, that means dependable healthcare coverage that can help ease the financial burden of unexpected medical expenses. With healthcare costs continuing to rise, access to medical consultations, hospitalization coverage, and preventive care has become increasingly important.

Others are looking for benefits that help protect the people who depend on them. For many who support not only their immediate families but also parents and extended relatives, having access to protection and financial security can be a significant consideration when evaluating an employer.

The Growing Importance of Financial Well-Being

Financial well-being is also becoming a growing priority. Employees are increasingly interested in benefits that can help them prepare for major life milestones, manage unforeseen challenges, and build greater confidence about the future.

At the same time, workplace expectations have expanded beyond traditional compensation and healthcare. Many employees now place greater value on work-life balance, mental wellness support, flexibility, and programs that contribute to their overall quality of life. They are looking for employers that recognize them not just as workers, but as individuals with personal responsibilities, aspirations, and goals outside the workplace.

This shift reflects a broader change in how people define a good job. Increasingly, it is not just about how much they earn, but about how supported they feel in building a healthier, more secure, and more fulfilling life.

"More than ever, workers want the confidence that they can focus on their goals, care for their loved ones, and navigate life's challenges knowing they have support when they need it," said Noemi Azura, President and CEO of InLife Benefits.

Supporting the Needs of Today's Workforce

Understanding these evolving needs has long been the focus of InLife Benefits Insurance Company, Inc.

Formerly known as Generali Philippines, InLife Benefits has specialized in group insurance and employee benefits solutions since 1999. Today, the company continues that commitment under a new name, helping employers provide meaningful protection and support for their workforce.

The transition to InLife Benefits reflects a stronger alignment with InLife, one of the country's most established life insurance companies with more than 115 years of serving Filipinos. Combined with the employee benefits expertise built over more than two decades and the global experience of Generali, the company continues to bring together local understanding and international insights to help address the changing needs of today's workforce. Importantly, while the company now carries a new name and visual identity, its commitment to clients remains unchanged.

Same Commitment, Stronger Foundation

As employee expectations continue to evolve, benefits are becoming more than just a workplace offering. They are increasingly part of how people build security for themselves and their families, pursue their goals with confidence, and prepare for whatever the future may bring.

For InLife Benefits, helping employers provide that support remains at the heart of what it does—continuing a legacy of employee benefits expertise while moving forward under a name that reflects both its heritage and its future. The name may be new, but the mission remains the same: helping protect what matters most.

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Higher Bills and Less Comfortable Nights? These May Be Signs Your Old Aircon Is Costing You More Than You Realize

Cooking Friday, July 24, 2026

Tired of serving the same old fried or stewed dishes every single night and longing for inihaw foods? Weeknight dinners in a busy household can often feel repetitive but transforming your daily dining routine doesn't have to mean spending hours over a hot stove or taking a long time to heat up a conventional grill. If you want to Level Up your Weeknight Ulam, bringing home the best smart multi-functional BBQ Air Grill and fryer is the game-changer you need.

Discover the Hamilton Beach Air Grill AF06201—a smart griller and air fryer powerhouse designed specifically for the modern Pinoy kitchen. Backed by America's No. 1 small kitchen appliance brand, this sleek countertop companion lets you enjoy authentic, restaurant-quality grilled and fried favorites right at home, minus the smoke and messy cleanup.

By combining high-velocity air circulation with a heavy-duty, high-heat non-stick ceramic grill plate and basket, the AirGrill infuses authentic grill marks and smoky char into everyday proteins—without the smoke, the charcoal prep, or the messy cleanup. Suddenly, that humble Petsa de Peligro pork chop undergoes a glow-up into a juicy, premium charred pork steak. Frozen chicken transforms into a perfectly crisp, BBQ Inasal in a fraction of the usual cooking time.

Key Features of Smart Grilling

· Air Turbo 360° Technology: Cooks food thoroughly without the need for oil, delivering a deliciously crispy texture while keeping meals healthy.

· Ultra-High Temperature Control: Reaches a maximum searing temperature of 230°C to quickly seal in natural juices by crisping the edges.

· Extra-Thick & Extra-Wide Grill Plates: Designed to retain heat and control temperatures effectively, the baking tray is spacious enough to cook up to 6 steaks at a single go or 900g of French fries.

· Reduced Oil Smoke System: Engineered to keep oil smoke out of your kitchen, ensuring a pleasant, smoke-free cooking experience.

· Hassle-Free Maintenance: Features a durable ceramic coating that is wear-resistant and easy to clean, paired with a removable oil-resistant plate.

· 15 Versatile Preset Menus: Take the guesswork out of cooking with dedicated presets for French fries, pizza, sweet potato, cheese toast, egg tart, steak, drumstick, chicken wings, duck, eggplant, fish, shrimp, sausage, kebab, and dried fruit.

Whether you are searing juicy steaks, grilling smoky eggplant, or whipping up a batch of crispy fries for the family, the Hamilton Beach AirGrill turns ordinary ingredients into extraordinary feasts. Say goodbye to kitchen burnout and hello to a smarter, tastier way to cook!

Discover Hamilton Beach Air Grill at L Smart Lounge Greenhills or Ayala Solenad. It is also available at Larx Trading, 91 Don Jose Street, Sta. Mesa Heights, Quezon City.

Visit our facebook page for more information facebook.com/hamiltonbeachphils

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Higher Bills and Less Comfortable Nights? These May Be Signs Your Old Aircon Is Costing You More Than You Realize

Carrier Friday, July 24, 2026

For many Filipino families, replacing an old aircon often feels like something you can only do when it completely stops working. After all, if it still turns on and cools a room, why replace it? But what many homeowners don’t realize is that an old aircon can quietly cost more over time – not just through higher electricity bills but also through the small discomforts that slowly become part of everyday life.

Maybe your room doesn’t feel as cool as it used to, or it takes longer to cool your space, or your monthly electric bill keeps going up even though your routines haven’t changed. These may seem like small inconveniences, but they’re often signs that your current unit is no longer keeping up with your household’s needs – and that it may be time for an upgrade.

A smart upgrade isn’t just about replacing an old appliance; it’s about creating a home that feels easier to live in every day. If you’re thinking about upgrading your aircon, here are three things to keep in mind.

Prioritize efficiency and cost-effectiveness

One of the clearest signs your aircon may be due for an upgrade is when your electricity bill keeps rising even though your family’s usage hasn’t really changed. If you’re still using a non-inverter aircon, that may be the reason why.

Older aircons, especially non-inverter models, use more electricity just to keep a room cool, which is why many homeowners are encouraged to upgrade to an inverter. Instead of running at full power all the time, they use only the energy needed to keep a certain space comfortable. This helps lower unnecessary energy consumption and keeps electricity costs more manageable.

Look beyond cooling and improve air quality at home

Another aspect that tends to get overlooked is air quality. Old aircons can accumulate dust, moisture, and bacteria, especially when filters and other internal components aren’t regularly maintained. This can affect homes with young children, elderly family members, or anyone sensitive to allergens. This is where upgrading could make a big difference, not just for cooling your home but for cleaner, healthier air for the family to breathe everyday.

Invest in comfort-enhancing features

Older units may still cool a room, but often have drawbacks such as uneven airflow, noisy operation, or the need for manual adjustments. The right aircon should make comfort feel seamless, and the Carrier Aura Split is designed to meet that need.

Equipped with Energenius Inverter Technology to efficiently maintain your preferred temperature, it allows families to enjoy all-day cooling costing as little as ₱324 a month. That’s just around the cost of two large coffee orders at a coffee shop, or a quick lunch order you get on delivery, or one month’s streaming subscription. And for that same amount, you get long-lasting comfort all day for you and your family.

The Carrier Aura Split also makes comfort more personal. Its Follow Me function adds intelligence by adjusting the temperature based on where you are in the room, using its remote as a reference point. Its Intelligent Eye Sensor detects when a room has been empty for 30 minutes and switches the air conditioner to Eco Mode to help save energy.

The unit has Silent Mode that keeps noise as low as 20 dB, while 4-Way Airflow distributes cool air more evenly throughout the room. It also keeps your home feeling fresher, thanks to its Active Clean function and Tri-Filtration System which work together to help reduce dust, odors, and bacteria in the air.

Together, these features make comfort something you no longer have to worry about – your aircon simply takes care of it for you and your family.

Make the smart upgrade today for you and your family

Over time, an aircon upgrade can add up in savings, helping make the upgrade feel more worth it in the long run. If a high-efficiency air conditioner costs about ₱4,000 more upfront but delivers approximately ₱700 in monthly electricity savings, the additional cost can be recovered in around 5 to 6 months. After the payback period, the lower energy consumption translates into ongoing savings over the unit's lifetime, making it a more cost-effective choice in the long run.

Available in 1.0HP, 1.5HP, 2.0HP, and 2.5HP depending on room size and cooling needs, the Carrier Aura line also includes models for various home requirements, such as the Carrier Aura Window for window-type installations and the Carrier Aura Slim for cooling modern, open-layout homes.

Whether you’re upgrading your bedroom aircon, improving your family’s shared living area, or refreshing your home office setup, choosing the right aircon can make a meaningful difference in the day-to-day comfort and expenses of your whole household. To learn more about Carrier Aura products, visit this link.

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Dr. Michael "Mentor Mike" Maranan Launches Four Inspiring Books to Empower the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs and Leaders

Dr. Michael Maranan Thursday, July 23, 2026

Knowledge becomes even more powerful when it is shared. This belief has long guided the remarkable journey of Dr. Michael V. Maranan, widely known as "Mentor Mike," as he officially launched four new books that reflect his decades of experience in entrepreneurship, education, leadership, and logistics.

A respected Filipino entrepreneur, licensed customs broker, educator, speaker, social entrepreneur, and author, Dr. Maranan has dedicated his career to helping individuals transform knowledge into meaningful action. His latest collection of books is more than a celebration of his accomplishments—it is an invitation for aspiring entrepreneurs, professionals, and future leaders to learn from practical experiences that have been tested in the real world.

As the President and CEO of Windfreight Express Total Logistics, Inc. and 88 Sunfreight Express Corporation, Dr. Maranan has built an impressive career in logistics, customs brokerage, freight forwarding, and supply chain management. His decades of leadership in the industry have allowed him to navigate the ever-changing business landscape while mentoring countless professionals who aspire to excel in their respective fields.

Beyond the corporate world, "Mentor Mike" has become a familiar name in classrooms, seminars, and leadership conferences. As a college professor and sought-after public speaker, he continues to share valuable lessons rooted not only in academic theories but also in personal experiences, business challenges, and real-life success stories.

He is also a mentor to some of the famous personalities in the showbiz industry which includes Jay Manalo who attended the Book Launch. Some artists who received his mentorship were QC Councilor Alfred Vargas and Actor Bearwin Meily.

His academic credentials further reflect his commitment to lifelong learning. Dr. Maranan earned his Doctor of Business Administration from Thames International University and completed his Master's Degree in Logistics and Supply Chain Management at Philippine Christian University. In recognition of his significant contributions to entrepreneurship, education, and humanitarian service, he was also conferred an Honorary Doctor of Humanities by the United College of Brazil. Adding to his distinguished achievements, he was recognized as an Outstanding Alumnus of Lyceum of the Philippines University–Batangas, a testament to the impact he has made both professionally and academically.

Watch the Book Launching of Mentok Mike

At the heart of Dr. Maranan's newly launched books is a simple yet powerful philosophy: education should be practical, accessible, and immediately applicable. Rather than focusing solely on concepts and theories, his books provide readers with valuable insights drawn from years of firsthand experience in business, leadership, and personal development. Each page offers lessons that readers can apply not only in entrepreneurship but also in their careers and everyday lives.

The launch of these four books marks another milestone in Dr. Maranan's mission to make quality mentorship available beyond the classroom and boardroom. Through his writings, he extends his guidance to anyone eager to learn, grow, and become a better version of themselves.

From Eight to Infinity: Secret Stories and Lessons from the Life of Dr. Mike Maranan

This inspirational memoir chronicles Dr. Maranan's personal journey — from humble beginnings and life's challenges to becoming a successful entrepreneur, educator, and business leader.

More than an autobiography, the book shares the values, decisions, failures, and lessons that shaped his life. Readers will discover stories of perseverance, resilience, discipline, faith, and purpose, proving that difficult circumstances can become stepping stones toward meaningful success.

The book is intended to inspire entrepreneurs, professionals, students, and anyone seeking motivation to pursue their dreams despite adversity.

The Business That Fits You

Not every successful business is the right business for everyone. This book challenges the common mindset of following trends and instead encourages readers to discover the business that genuinely aligns with their personality, strengths, interests, lifestyle, resources, and long-term vision.

Through practical frameworks, self-assessment, and real-world mentorship, readers are guided toward building businesses that are sustainable, fulfilling, and uniquely suited to who they are.

The book is ideal for aspiring entrepreneurs, startup founders, professionals considering entrepreneurship, and existing business owners seeking greater alignment with their goals.

Ang Negosyong Swak Sa'yo

Written entirely in Filipino, Ang Negosyong Swak Sa'yo makes entrepreneurial guidance more accessible to a wider audience. Rather than asking "What business is profitable?", the book encourages readers to ask "What business is right for me?"

It provides relatable advice to help aspiring entrepreneurs understand their strengths, avoid costly business mismatches, and confidently choose opportunities that match their personality, current life season, and future aspirations.

The book is intended to empower more Filipinos to make informed business decisions using practical and easy-to-understand

guidance.

Confessions of a Licensed Customs Broker

Drawing from decades of professional experience, Dr. Maranan provides an honest and practical look into the realities of customs brokerage beyond passing the licensure examination.

The book discusses actual industry experiences, professional responsibilities, career challenges, and opportunities within customs, logistics, and international trade. It aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world practice.

Designed for customs brokers, students, importers, exporters, logistics practitioners, and professionals, it serves as both an educational resource and a practical career guide.

More than just an accomplished businessman, Dr. Michael "Mentor Mike" Maranan continues to embody the qualities of a true mentor—someone who believes that success is most meaningful when it is shared with others. Whether through entrepreneurship, teaching, public speaking, philanthropy, or now through his growing collection of books, his purpose remains unwavering: to educate, empower, and inspire people to become better entrepreneurs, professionals, and leaders.

With the successful launch of his four new books, Dr. Maranan once again demonstrates that learning never stops, and that every experience—whether in business or in life—has the power to inspire someone else's success story.

All four books will be made available online. Initial sales channels include:

Website, soon on TikTok, Shopee and Lazada. For more updates follow his official Facebook page Mentor Mike TV.

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Jollibee is Voted USA TODAY’s No. 1 Best Fast Food Fried Chicken for Third Straight Year

Jollibee Thursday, July 23, 2026

Jollibee has once again been hailed the No. 1 Best Fast Food Fried Chicken in the U.S. in USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, securing the top spot for the third consecutive year.

Voted on by USA TODAY readers, the latest recognition reaffirms Jollibee Chickenjoy’s reputation for consistently delivering the crispy, juicy, and delicious taste that customers love in the highly competitive U.S quick-service restaurant market. Its third straight win also shows that Chickenjoy fried chicken’s exceptional taste is not a one-time achievement, but a quality standard that Jollibee continues to uphold.

“Receiving this recognition for the third consecutive year is especially meaningful because it reflects the consistency of the quality, taste, and customer experience that we work hard to deliver with every serving in Chickenjoy,” said Ernesto Tanmantiong, Jollibee Group Global President and Chief Executive Officer. “It gives us even greater confidence in Jollibee’s ability to deepen customer trust and brand love in more markets, as we continue bringing the products and experiences that have made our brand a source of joy for many families.”

A consistent standard of superior taste

Known for its golden, crispy exterior and juicy, delicious chicken, Chickenjoy fried chicken continues to earn the loyalty of customers across markets.

The win marks another milestone in Jollibee’s growing list of international accolades, having previously been named: The Best Fast-Food Fried Chicken by Eater.com (2022) for Chickenjoy, and Best Chain Fried Chicken in America by Thrillist (2021).

With around 100 stores in North America and over 1,800 locations worldwide, Jollibee has become one of the fastest-growing restaurant brands globally. The brand continues to attract fans across cultures through its joyful customer experience and crave-worthy offerings, with recognitions such as USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Award adding to its global brand momentum.

“We are deeply grateful to the USA TODAY readers who voted for Jollibee and to our loyal customers who continue to share their love for the brand,” said Maribeth dela Cruz, Jollibee Philippine Brands North America President. “This recognition also reflects the dedication of our teams who prepare and serve Chickenjoy every day, helping ensure a joyful and satisfying experience with every visit. It inspires us to keep delivering the Jollibee experience people love, while introducing it to even more customers across North America and beyond.”

The USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards feature recommendations across food, travel, destinations, and experiences in the United States. Nominees are selected by experts, while the final rankings are determined through public voting.

View the complete USA TODAY 10Best Fast Food Fried Chicken list.

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Redefine Weekdays into Meaningful Moments at Solaire Resort Quezon City

Lifestyle Wednesday, July 22, 2026

Flexibility in the workplace has become more popular as people begin to value a balance between personal time and productivity. With newfound control over diverse schedules, Solaire Resort Quezon City offers new ways to tailor the best experiences into weekdays. Transform weekly routines into something to look forward to alongside changing work patterns, and rediscover a new side to the week as the city’s first and only five-star luxury integrated resort breaks the norm to create a celebration out of every day.

Turn downtimes during weekdays into momentous occasions with delightful deals around the resort, all the way to a wide array of outlets to choose from. From Mondays to Thursdays, embrace the freedom of planning exciting activities and whole-day experiences perfect for family leisure, social get-togethers with friends and colleagues, and more.

Relaxing retreats are no longer reserved for the weekend with body and massage treatments, alongside hair care packages readily available up to 20% off at the Spa & Salon. Personalize hybrid schedules around much needed sessions of midweek wellness whether it be for a quick break during back-to-back meetings, or a gentle pause to rest on a free day.

Cherish precious time with the family at Kids Club, where play sessions get more exciting with varying offers each day. From free passes and buy-one-take-one opportunities to exclusive discounts for kids in costume and day-long movie screenings, children and guardians alike are set to create memorable moments together for the days that matter most.

With one step closer to the weekend, celebrate making it through the week with friends and colleagues after work for some added enjoyment. Gather with the girls as Ladies’ Night takes centerstage, serving up three hours of unlimited pours at Quezon Club, Finestra, and Skybar. For those looking to stay, explore more ways to make the week better with extended stays offered at 50% off on the succeeding additional night.

Even on the gaming floors, weekdays become something to look forward to. Patrons and guests are invited to feel the thrill of the week with amazing prizes at the gaming zones. Experience lucky spins with the latest slot games, lower betting limits for table games, a million-peso prize pool, and premium prize draws weekly.

Make weekdays better with even more exciting opportunities available through the Solaire Rewards program. Discover privileges across dining, accommodations, and more with various rebates and perks making celebrations at the luxury integrated resort something to remember. Solaire Rewards members enjoy up to 20% off dining, while new members who sign up for Solaire Rewards may receive 30% off their first bill.

For inquiries and reservations, visit sn.solaireresort.com/offers call +632 8888 8888, or email sn.reservations@solaireresort.com.

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Why every Filipino needs an emergency fund

CIMB Bank Wednesday, July 22, 2026

Did you know that most Filipino families are just one healthcare emergency away from falling into poverty?

According to a study published in 2005, even a PHP 10,000 medical bill is enough to indebt 64% of the Filipino families surveyed, highlighting how fragile the finances of many Pinoy households are. This data was validated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ 2025 Consumer Finance and Inclusion Survey which found that only three in 10 adults are able to withstand financial shocks.

Unexpected expenses come in many forms, such as sudden car trouble, home repair due to typhoons and other natural disasters, emergency hospitalization, and even sudden job loss. These situations can happen to anyone, regardless of age, income, or occupation. While you can’t predict life’s surprises, you can prepare ahead for them. This is where an emergency fund comes in handy.

What is an emergency fund?

“An emergency fund is an essential financial tool. This refers to money put aside for unexpected financial expenses or sudden income loss. It is a way to prepare for unplanned circumstances to avoid being burdened financially,” shared JM Pabiton, Chief Finance Officer of CIMB Bank Philippines.

Your personal savings ≠ your emergency fund

According to Pabiton, a longtime banking professional and finance educator, your emergency fund should be different from your regular savings.

“It should be the most liquid account you have and not locked into longer tenor funds, meaning you can access the money anytime. The primary goal is not to earn interest,” he said. “While you can also keep it in your savings account, the intent and the purpose are also very different, as emergency funds must only be used for necessary and important expenses, not day-to-day items.”

How much should you save?

Starting an emergency fund can seem daunting, but the process can be broken down into smaller, more manageable steps, according to Pabiton. While it depends on the person, he recommends understanding your monthly expenses first. Log all costs, then identify which are truly necessary every month. List these necessities, calculate your total monthly expenses, then aim to have at least six months’ worth of these expenses saved to form your emergency fund.

“Personally, my benchmark is six to 12 months. This depends on your current situation. If you’re starting, start with one month. Then go for two months, three months, until you get good at saving. Once you reach your target, you can focus on growing your savings, investments, and other long-term financial goals. This gives layers to your money management."

Where to keep your emergency fund

Once you start saving, you may be wondering where you should keep it. The most important consideration when deciding where to keep your emergency funds is ease of access, meaning your funds must be easy to transfer or withdraw in the event of an emergency.

"Thanks to digital banking and technology, it is easier now to access your funds. Certain banks also offer higher interest rates without locking in your money, so this keeps you liquid with the bonus of earning more interest. This makes these accounts a smart place to keep your emergency fund," said Pabiton.

Things to keep in mind when managing your funds

While the journey varies per person, Pabiton also shared three important reminders to effectively manage and grow your emergency fund:

Leverage technology. Many banks now offer free and automatic transfers. Use this to your advantage to set aside money for your emergency fund first, then learn to live on the remaining amount. This way, you can build up the habit of saving for emergencies more easily and consistently.

Be firm with what counts as an emergency. It can be tempting to dip into your emergency fund when the going gets tough, but it is important to keep in mind that this fund is not meant to cover day-to-day spending in case your weekly budget runs out. Think of it as an exercise in budgeting and living within your means.

But while Pabiton does not recommend taking out money from your emergency fund when your regular budget runs short, there are certain exemptions.

"There are certain situations that you cannot anticipate. For example, the recent spike in fuel prices. Who would have known that prices would double that quickly? For me, it's a basic commodity and a necessary expense, but no one was able to plan for the price hike. This is an example of how unexpected increases in cost of basic necessities can constitute a financial emergency," he said. "From this experience, you can adjust the budget needed the following month to ensure you won't have to keep taking from your emergency fund."

Recalibrate the amount needed regularly. To be better prepared for the unexpected, your emergency fund should also be reviewed and adjusted regularly. Pabiton shared that if you're still building your fund, it is best to review it every month.

For those with partners, he also stresses the importance of communicating openly and planning as a couple, as expenses need to be planned for the entire household. Whether a household has a single source of income or multiple income earners, it is important to have a clear view of the household's overall financial situation to better protect its financial wellbeing.

Building an emergency fund is a journey that takes time and looks different for everyone. However, the most important thing is to take that first step and focus on achieving your goal. These small yet definite steps can help lead you towards financial freedom.

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