Facebook Instagram Linkedin X Youtube
Home Blog Page 401

InstaPay, PESONet transfers reach P24.7 trillion in 2025

STOCK PHOTO | Image by David Dvořáček from Unsplash

By Katherine K. Chan, Reporter

DIGITAL PAYMENTS in the Philippines continued to grow in 2025 as transfers made through InstaPay and PESONet amounted to P24.745 trillion last year.

Data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed that the combined value of transactions done via the payment gateways stood at P24.745 trillion at end-2025, surging by 42.02% from P17.423 trillion at end-2024.

Meanwhile, the volume of payments more than tripled to 4.773 billion last year from 1.508 billion in 2024.

As of December 2025, the value of transactions done on InstaPay soared by 57.27% to P11.554 trillion by the end of last year from P7.347 trillion at end-2024.

Meanwhile, the volume of transactions coursed through the payment gateway jumped by 231% year on year to 4.656 billion at end-December from 1.407 billion previously.

Local households and businesses’ increasing use of digital payments led to the strong growth of InstaPay and PESONet transactions in 2025, Union Bank of the Philippines Chief Economist Ruben Carlo O. Asuncion said.

“Wider adoption of mobile banking and e‑wallets, improved interoperability across banks and fintech (financial technology) platforms, and the growing use of digital payments for salaries, bill payments, and business-to-business transactions all contributed to the rise in transaction values in 2025,” he added in a Viber message.

Mr. Asuncion noted that consumers and businesses have been using such automated clearing houses for large value transactions.

Meanwhile, Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. Chief Economist Michael L. Ricafort said the convenience and security of digital payments likely boosted traffic in both payment gateways.

“The strong, double-digit growth rates reflect the continued adoption of these digital payment solutions by Filipinos, who are shifting from over-the-counter payment transactions to digital banking due to greater convenience, lower costs, faster, safer and more reliable transactions,” he said via Viber.

BSP data also showed that P13.191 trillion worth of transactions went through PESONet last year, jumping by 30.91% from the P10.077 trillion recorded in 2024.

In terms of volume, PESONet processed 117.246 million transactions in 2025, up by 16.25% from 100.853 million in the previous year.

InstaPay and PESONet are automated clearing houses under the central bank’s National Retail Payment System framework.

InstaPay is a real-time, low-value electronic fund transfer facility for transactions of up to P50,000 and is mostly used for remittances and e-commerce.

Meanwhile, PESONet is mainly used for high-value transactions and may be considered an electronic alternative to paper-based checks.

Analysts said further digitalization push in the financial system would help prop up transactions in both InstaPay and PESONet this year.

“We expect InstaPay and PESONet transactions to continue expanding this year, supported by sustained digitalization efforts, further onboarding of users into the formal financial system, and the growing role of digital payments in commerce and government transactions,” Mr. Asuncion said.

“Continued investments in payment infrastructure, enhanced consumer trust in electronic channels, and policy initiatives promoting cash‑lite transactions should help underpin growth moving forward,” he added.

John Paolo R. Rivera, a senior research fellow at the Philippine Institute for Development Studies, also said that InstaPay and PESONet may see more transactions this year amid growing partnerships between digital wallets and banks as well as government and merchant payment systems.

“These transactions are likely to continue rising in 2026,” Mr. Rivera said in a Viber message. “Key drivers include financial inclusion efforts, expanding digital wallets and bank partnerships, deeper integration with government and merchant payment systems, and rising comfort with cashless everyday transactions.”
“Ongoing fintech innovation, improved trust and security, and broader education on digital tools will also support sustained growth for InstaPay and PESONet,” he added.

The BSP wants digital payments to account for 60%-70% of the total volume of retail payments by 2028, in line with the Philippine Development Plan.

In 2024, the share of online payments in monthly retail transactions stood at 57.4% in terms of volume and 59% in value terms, the BSP’s 2024 Status of Digital Payments in the Philippines report showed.

Gaming sector seen to post modest growth in 2026 — analysts

STOCK PHOTO | Image by Rawpixel

By Alexandria Grace C. Magno

ANALYSTS expect the Philippine-listed gaming and casino sector to see modest growth this year, fueled by online gaming expansion and steady mass-market play at physical casinos, though performance is likely to vary across operators due to regulatory challenges, rising costs, and uneven market conditions.

“Listed gaming firms are shaping up to be a tale of two segments for 2026. Online gaming remains the main growth driver, while physical casinos are expected to deliver more stable but moderate returns, anchored on mass-market play and non-gaming revenues rather than a full recovery in VIP volumes,” said F. Yap Securities analyst Marky Carunungan.

He noted that companies with diversified revenue streams, strong balance sheets, and exposure to stable tourism markets are better positioned for steady growth, while those reliant on a single customer type or regulatory framework could face greater risks.

“Online gaming continues to be a key catalyst, benefiting operators with established digital platforms such as DigiPlus Interactive Corp., although earnings visibility remains clouded by regulatory uncertainties,” Mr. Carunungan added.

Integrated resort operators, including Bloomberry Resorts Corp. and Belle Corp., are expected to benefit from gradual tourism recovery and resilient domestic mass-market play, he said.

Toby Allan C. Arce, head of sales trading at Globalinks Securities, described the sector outlook as cautiously optimistic, noting that growth will likely continue but at a more measured pace than during the post-pandemic rebound.

“Demand for gaming and resort experiences is likely to remain supported by recovering tourism, rising disposable incomes in key markets, and the appeal of entertainment-focused destinations,” Mr. Arce said.

“However, performance is expected to be uneven, reflecting differences in geographic exposure, regulatory environments, and operators’ ability to diversify revenues beyond traditional gaming.”

Analysts flagged regulatory and policy risks, heightened competition, and higher operating costs — including labor, utilities, compliance, and promotions — as key hurdles that could cap earnings growth despite improving revenues.

“Any slowdown in regional or global economic growth could weigh on discretionary spending, particularly for high-end gaming and entertainment offerings,” Mr. Arce said.

“For land-based operators, VIP and premium gaming recovery remains uncertain, while operating expenses and promotional intensity continue to pressure margins,” Mr. Carunungan added.

Last year, listed gaming and casino companies showed mixed financial results. DigiPlus Interactive posted signs of recovery in the fourth quarter after regulatory changes affected e-wallet access earlier in the year. Pacific Online Systems reported higher net income for the January-to-September period, supported by stable lottery operations through its joint venture, PinoyLotto Technologies Corp.

Bloomberry Resorts recorded a third-quarter net loss due to higher costs on its MegaFUNalo! online platform and weaker international casino performance. Belle Corp. also saw net income decline for the same period, while PhilWeb Corp. reported a net loss.

Looking ahead, analysts said sustained travel and tourism, especially in regional hubs with strong cross-border visitation, could help integrated resorts, which combine casinos with hotels, retail, dining, conventions, and entertainment, tap diverse revenue sources.

“Mass-market and premium mass segments are expected to outperform high-roller play in many markets, as operators focus on volume, stability, and lower credit risk,” Mr. Arce said. “Digitalization, loyalty programs, and data analytics will continue to enhance customer engagement and support repeat visitation, while non-gaming revenue streams will play a growing role in stabilizing earnings.”

Mr. Carunungan said the shift toward mass-market gaming, non-gaming amenities, and technology-driven customer acquisition will shape the sector’s medium-term outlook.

“Sustainability, responsible gaming initiatives, and stronger regulatory compliance frameworks are expected to become central to long-term strategy and investor perception,” he added.

Ayala Corp. plans up to P30-billion bond program

AYALA.COM

LISTED CONGLOMERATE Ayala Corp. has moved to secure regulatory flexibility for future fund-raising after its board approved a plan to register up to P30 billion in peso-denominated bonds with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

In a disclosure on Thursday, the company said its board, acting on the recommendation of its finance committee, approved the filing of a five-year shelf registration.

The registration will allow Ayala Corp. to issue bonds in tranches over time, instead of seeking separate regulatory approval for each offering.

The company said the required documents and disclosures will be submitted to regulators in the coming months.

AP Securities, Inc. Equity Research Analyst Shawn Ray R. Atienza said the move is typical for large, diversified groups with ongoing capital requirements across multiple businesses.

“The shelf registration improves Ayala Corp.’s capital-raising flexibility and streamlines future bond issuances by eliminating the need for repeated SEC approvals,” he said in a Viber message.

Ayala Corp. is the holding company of the Ayala Group, with businesses spanning real estate, banking and financial services, telecommunications, power generation, healthcare, logistics, infrastructure, industrial manufacturing, education, and technology services.

At the stock exchange on Thursday, shares in Ayala Corp. rose 2.1% to close at P534 apiece. — Alexandria Grace C. Magno

Megawide inks lease for P1.19-B Baguio City transport terminal

THE BAGUIO CITY Integrated Terminal project involves leasing, operating, and maintaining an intermodal terminal to serve provincial buses arriving from outside Baguio City. — BAGUIO CITY PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE OFFICIAL FACEBOOK ACCOUNT

MEGAWIDE Construction Corp. has signed a lease agreement with the Baguio City Government to implement the P1.19-billion Baguio City Integrated Terminal (BCIT) project.

In a stock exchange disclosure on Thursday, the listed engineering and infrastructure company said the agreement follows its receipt of the notice of award for the project last year.

The lease covers the development, construction, and operation of an integrated transport terminal, including mixed commercial spaces within the premises, Megawide said.

The lease term will not extend beyond the 40th anniversary of the construction start date or the expiration of the applicable usufruct arrangement.

Megawide noted that the project was awarded after no competing bids were received to challenge the company’s unsolicited proposal.

The BCIT is designed to handle up to 25,000 passengers daily and will initially serve seven southbound routes, including La Union, Pangasinan, Tarlac, Pampanga, Bulacan, Metro Manila, and Cavite via the planned South Luzon Integrated Terminal Exchange.

The terminal will be built on a five-hectare property in Barangay Dontogan, about five kilometers from Baguio City proper.

The project aims to ease traffic congestion in the city by relocating provincial buses and UV Express vans outside the central district.

On Thursday, Megawide shares rose 17 centavos, or 5.41%, to close at P3.31 apiece. — Ashley Erika O. Jose

Cebu Pacific to complete turboprop transfer to Clark by March

CEBUPACIFICAIR.COM

BUDGET CARRIER Cebu Pacific Air, Inc. said it will complete the transfer of its turboprop operations from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to Clark International Airport by March.

Starting March 29, Cebgo, the airline’s regional brand, will operate from Clark, covering its Coron (Busuanga) and Naga routes, the company said in a statement on Thursday.

The move follows a 2025 resolution issued by the Department of Transportation’s (DoTr) Manila Slot Coordination Committee directing the relocation of turboprop operations outside Metro Manila.

Boutique airline AirSWIFT, a wholly owned subsidiary of Cebu Pacific, will also transfer its operations to Clark from NAIA Terminal 2.

The shift will affect its Manila-El Nido-Manila flights, the company said.

Cebu Pacific said affected passengers will be automatically rebooked on new flights departing from Clark.

It added that passengers may opt for free rebooking, refunds, or travel fund conversion should they prefer alternative arrangements.

The government had earlier deferred the implementation of the turboprop relocation to March this year from October last year to give airlines additional time to complete the transition.

The transfer aims to help decongest NAIA and improve air traffic flow, the airline said.

Cebu Pacific also said it will increase flight frequencies for selected domestic and international routes from Manila.

Weekly flights will rise to 63 for Bacolod, 46 for Butuan, 69 for Cagayan de Oro, 108 for Cebu, 90 for Davao, 42 for Dumaguete, 14 for Ozamiz, 49 for Tacloban, and 45 for Zamboanga.

Internationally, the airline will increase Manila-Hong Kong flights to 35 per week from 28, and Manila-Kaohsiung flights to five per week from three.

Cebu Pacific currently serves 37 domestic and 26 international destinations with a fleet of 100 aircraft. — Ashley Erika O. Jose

SPNEC seeks SEC nod for rebranding to MGEN Renewable Energy

SPNEC.PH

SP NEW ENERGY CORP. (SPNEC) said it has applied for regulatory approval to change its corporate name to MGEN Renewable Energy Holdings, Inc., as part of a broader rebranding initiative within its parent group.

In a statement on Thursday, SPNEC said it filed an application with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to amend its corporate name and change its stock symbol to MGENR.

The company said the move forms part of the “ongoing rebranding initiative” of its parent, Meralco PowerGen Corp. (MGEN), which began in August last year.

“It aims to strengthen alignment and consistency across the One MGEN group as it presents a unified identity for its diversified power generation portfolio, including renewable energy,” SPNEC said.

SPNEC added that the initiative is intended to “enhance clarity and ease of identification for stakeholders and does not involve any changes to SPNEC’s ownership structure, operations, or existing renewable energy projects.”

SPNEC is a subsidiary of MGEN, the power generation arm of Manila Electric Co. (Meralco).

Analysts said the rebranding may help clarify the company’s position within the Meralco group following recent developments in the renewable energy sector.

“SPNEC’s corporate name change positions the company away from the Solar Philippines branding and allows it to be perceived as a renewable energy arm within Meralco’s ecosystem, which has an impeccable track record in project execution,” Shawn Ray R. Atienza, an equity research analyst at AP Securities, Inc., told BusinessWorld.

Juan Paolo E. Colet, managing director at China Bank Capital Corp., said the move could support Meralco PowerGen’s longer-term plans for its renewable energy business.

“I think this confirms that Meralco PowerGen will push through with the backdoor infusion of its renewable energy business into the listed company,” he said.

MGEN said last year that it is evaluating a potential initial public offering of its renewable energy unit, MGEN Renewable Energy, Inc., which may involve the injection of assets into SPNEC in exchange for shares.

SPNEC is developing the MTerra Solar Project through its subsidiary, Terra Solar Philippines, Inc.

The project consists of a 2,500-megawatt solar facility with a 4,600-megawatt-hour battery energy storage system located in Nueva Ecija and Bulacan.

The first phase of the project is expected to be completed early this year, while the second phase is scheduled for completion in 2027.

MTerra Solar is expected to contribute to MGEN’s goal of reaching 1,500 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2027.

Meralco’s controlling shareholder, Beacon Electric Asset Holdings, Inc., is partly owned by PLDT Inc. Hastings Holdings, Inc., a unit of PLDT Beneficial Trust Fund subsidiary MediaQuest Holdings, Inc., has an interest in BusinessWorld through the Philippine Star Group, which it controls. — Sheldeen Joy Talavera

SEC says new rules on board directors expected this quarter

STOCK PHOTO | Image by Rawpixel.Com from Freepik

THE SECURITIES and Exchange Commission (SEC) plans to introduce new rules within the first quarter setting fixed terms for independent directors, as part of efforts to strengthen corporate governance and accountability in listed companies.

Under the proposed rules, independent directors — board members who represent shareholders and help oversee company management — would serve three-year terms, with a maximum cumulative service of nine years.

The SEC also plans to stagger terms so that not all seats are renewed at the same time.

“This ensures that boards remain balanced and independent while giving companies time to plan leadership transitions,” SEC Chairperson Francisco Ed. Lim said on Wednesday.

Currently, independent directors can serve up to nine years, with some companies allowed to extend their terms under special exemptions.

Mr. Lim said the SEC intends to enforce the nine-year cap more strictly going forward.

The changes aim to strengthen the role of independent directors in holding management accountable, protecting shareholder interests, and promoting transparency in company operations. — Alexandria Grace C. Magno

’80s nostalgia seen with fresh eyes

Bagets the Musical gets ready for its audience

By Brontë H. Lacsamana, Reporter

STAGING a beloved Filipino coming-of-age tale four decades after the original film came out could be considered a no-brainer in 2026, given how nostalgia is the big thing in different forms of storytelling today. Using the versatility of Philippine theater as a platform, the challenge now is presenting 1980s nostalgia with a refreshed perspective.

As Bagets the Musical opens this year, it’s important to note the interesting blend of creative groups that brought the show to life. It’s adapted by PETA Plus (the creative agency of the Philippine Educational Theater Association), produced by Viva Communications, Inc. (which produced the Bagets film in 1984), and helmed by Philstar Next (the Philstar Media Group’s entertainment arm*).

Put all of that together, and you have a musical that aims to recapture the spirit of Filipino youth — with the help of songs from the movie as well as other iconic 1980s hits — while giving audiences some nuggets of reflection to carry home from the show.

“We hope you’ll enjoy this because the kids worked hard during rehearsals. It’s a fun show and I hope you all enjoy it!” said director Maribel Legarda at the start of the open rehearsals on Jan. 21.

(As with all technical dress rehearsals, the show BusinessWorld saw was not yet fully polished, so there were a few mishaps with lighting. Otherwise, it was already mostly how it should be on opening night.)

“It’s not perfectly clean yet, but generally it’s complete and you’ll get a sense of what Bagets has become from its transition from the 1984 movie to the musical you’re going to see,” Ms. Legarda said.

A cute touch while the audience waits for the curtains to rise is the voiceover announcing the minutes left before the show starts — each one is recorded by a cast member announcing the time in character.

The musical opens by traveling back in time, as a large box television set projected on the screen in front takes us from 2026 newsbites to all the way back to the vibrant colors and sounds of 1984.

After that, the energy kicks off, as five young men — Topee, Tonton, Gilbert, Arnel, and Adie — cap off their third year in high school causing trouble as usual. Hilarious antics follow as they get kicked out of their school and launch into a series of adventures and misadventures both at home and in their new school, revealing complex family issues at the same time.

Tall, rolling set pieces were utilized cleverly, allowing us to glimpse each boy’s house in multiple scenes, while the mini car they used onstage was fun to see as it glided around.

While the timing of the lights with the music and dialogue was, indeed, a work-in-progress, the use of set pieces, props, and LED screens is exciting. It’s fun to watch a dynamic PETA Plus production on a stage as vast as the Newport Performing Arts Theater.

The five leads were played by Sam Shoaf, Milo Cruz, Noel Comia, Jr., Ethan David, and Andres Muhlach during the open rehearsals, and it was good to see that a shared chemistry was there.

Admittedly, there were some glaring pain points in terms of singing and dancing skills. Some of the performers take to the songs and choreography better than others, but the chemistry of the five as friends is undeniable.

Each brings something different to the table. Sam Shoaf has a magnetic presence as martial arts ace and athletic heartthrob Topee. Milo Cruz is a solid performer who can sing and bust out moves as he takes on daredevil Tonton. Noel Comia, Jr., stands out as an actor, able to bring out both the comic relief and endearing geek within Gilbert. Ethan David lends his beautiful voice to the role of well-mannered rich kid Arnel.

Andres Muhlach probably has the most pressure on him out of the bunch, having the least performing experience in the group and being in the shadow of his father who originated the role of the baby-faced romantic Adie in the movie. Still, he perseveres through the songs and choreography, offering a singular charm to the role.

Altogether, the five make it work, amid understandable first-show jitters and timing issues. The other batch of leads — Jeff Moses, Migo Valid, Tomas Rodriguez, KD Estrada, and Mico Hendrix Chua — would be interesting to see, for a different take on the main barkada.

Finally, it would be remiss to talk about Bagets the Musical without giving kudos to the actors playing the moms. Thanks to director Ms. Legarda and writer J-mee Katanyag, a noticeable focus of the show is how mothers take care of their sons, expanding the glimpses we see in the original film.

The ermats are played splendidly by Neomi Gonzales, Natasha Cabrera, Mayen Cadd, Ring Antonio, and Carla Guevara Laforteza, each delivering the quirks and flaws that flesh out dimensions of the boys’ lives. They have their own journey growing up alongside their sons, in the context of working women becoming a norm in the 1980s.

Another cool element is seeing the machismo and youth culture that only make sense in that time period. While deemed inappropriate and politically incorrect in today’s milieu, it’s intriguing to witness these outdated aspects in a Bagets updated in 2026.

Most of all, Bagets the Musical leans heavily into the nostalgia, offering a fun time in the theater with hits like “Telefone (Long Distance Love Affair)” and “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” alongside iconic Bagets tunes “Growing Up” and “Just Got Lucky.” The entire ensemble really fills out the stage and brings their A-game each time.

The experience is a good one that both young and old can appreciate. There are even interactive portions that allow the audience to revel in the music and the youthful energy. While there are still things to fine-tune here and there, it’s a show worth checking out.

Bagets the Musical opens on Jan. 23 and runs until March at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Pasay City. Tickets, ranging in price from P1,000 to P4,000, are now available at the Newport World Resorts Box Office and via TicketWorld.

*The Philstar Media Group is part of MediaQuest Holdings, Inc., as is BusinessWorld.

Globe, Nokia widen tie-up to offer new digital tools to businesses

STOCK PHOTO | Image by M. Rennim from Unsplash

GLOBE TELECOM, INC. said it has expanded its collaboration with Nokia Corp. to make network application programming interfaces (APIs) available to more users and businesses.

The Ayala-led telecommunications company said broader access to network data through APIs could create opportunities for enterprises to use advanced network capabilities across sectors such as banking, healthcare, automotive, and entertainment.

Under the agreement, Globe will gain access to Nokia’s full portfolio of APIs through the Network Exposure Program (NEP), a cloud-native and programmable platform designed to streamline API services and enable interoperability within network environments.

“With cyberattacks on digital services accelerating, it is crucial that we make available the latest network-powered technologies to our enterprise customers and help safeguard against fraud. We are now at the stage of testing how Nokia’s NEP can support our customers in the banking and enterprise sectors,” Globe Vice-President and Head of Globe Business Stella Christine D. Dizon said in a media release on Thursday.

Globe previously partnered with Nokia last year to test the NEP for the development of security-focused applications aimed at addressing mobile banking fraud.

“Nokia’s open API solutions will empower Globe to rapidly develop and deploy new services, fostering innovation and creating new revenue streams by securely exposing network capabilities to developers and partners,” Nokia Head of Network Monetization Platform Shkumbin Hamiti said.

Shares in Globe rose P28, or 1.75%, to close at P1,630 apiece on Thursday. — Ashley Erika O. Jose

Taylor Swift named to Songwriters Hall of Fame, second-youngest ever

BW FILE PHOTO

LOS ANGELES — Taylor Swift, 36, will become the second-youngest songwriter ever inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, joining the ranks of Stevie Wonder, who was 33 when he was inducted in 1983, the organization announced on Wednesday.

The honor places the pop superstar, winner of 14 Grammys, among the most celebrated songwriters across generations.

Ms. Swift will be inducted alongside Alanis Morissette, Kenny Loggins, and Kiss bandmates Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons, with the ceremony set for June 11 at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City, the organization announced on CBS Mornings.

“They’ve literally written the soundtrack to our lives. The songs we dance to, cry to and rock out to,” culture correspondent Anthony Mason said on CBS Mornings before announcing the inductees.

Established in 1969, the Songwriters Hall of Fame requires that inducted songwriters have a notable catalog of songs to qualify for induction 20 years after the first commercial release of a song.

The “Bad Blood” singer has won four Grammy album of the year awards. Her latest release, The Life of a Showgirl, sold more copies than any other album in the modern era during its first week of release, according to Billboard, which cited data from Luminate, a firm that tracks music sales.

In May 2025, Ms. Swift announced that she bought her music rights, officially reclaiming ownership of all her master recordings, including her first six albums.

Later that year, Ms. Swift’s record-breaking Eras tour spawned a concert film and a six-part documentary series that chronicles the success of the tour on Disney+.

Her 2024 The Tortured Poets Department album, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 album chart, sold the equivalent of 8 million albums in the United States, according to Luminate. — Reuters

Ayala Land unit signs five-year office lease with LANDBANK

LAND BANK OF THE PHILIPPINES

THE OFFICE leasing unit of Ayala Land, Inc. (ALI) has signed a five-year lease agreement with Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) for 3,866.75 square meters of office and parking space at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay Corporate Center.

In a statement on Thursday, Ayala Land Offices, Inc. (ALO) said the space will be used by selected LANDBANK head office units, departments, and a subsidiary. The lease is scheduled to begin on June 1.

Under the agreement, LANDBANK is the lessee, Bay City Commercial Ventures Corp. is the lessor, and ALO will serve as the leasing manager.

ALO said the lease reflects its continuing efforts to meet evolving office requirements as organizations adjust their space needs.

Ayala Land reported combined revenues from office and commercial and industrial lot sales of P12.8 billion in the first nine months of 2025, up from P10.4 billion in the same period a year earlier.

The company attributed the increase to lot sales in the first half and sustained bookings in key locations, including the Makati central business district, Vertis North, and Arca South.

Shares in ALI were unchanged at P22.50 apiece on Thursday. — Alexandria Grace C. Magno

Stuff to Do (01/23/26)

Go to Asia’s biggest dog show

THE Philippine Circuit Dog Show 2026 is ongoing at the Smart Araneta Coliseum until Jan. 26. Now in its 12th year, it is headlined by the 2026 Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) World Grooming Competition, which highlights the skills and artistry in dog grooming. Dogs and their handlers from around the world showcase creative styling, breed-specific cuts, and technical expertise. Alongside this contest, there will be 12 All-Breed Championship Dog Shows, mediated by renowned international judges to ensure fair and healthy competition. There are 7,440 entries representing 91 breeds.

Listen to some jazz

THE year 2026 marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and the Philippines. To formally launch this landmark year, The Japan Foundation, Manila will present Harmony of Friendship: A Jazz Prelude to 70 Years of Japan-Philippine Ties. The concert series is headlined by the Tokyo-Manila Jazz & Arts Festival Group led by Filipino jazz vocalist Charito. They will be joined by the Philippines’ AMP Big Band, an organization of professional session musicians. On Jan. 22 at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Makati City, the concert tour continues, free and open to the public, while a jazz workshop at De La Salle University-Dasmariñas will be organized by Lasallian Pop Band, with registration required through the organization. A third by-invitation-only concert will be held in Cebu.

Watch CAST’s staged readings

CAST PH’s (The Company of Actors in Streamlined Theatre) is once again presenting its annual staged readings. The theme of this year’s season (its 6th) is “RE-ORIENT — Narratives from Asian Voices.” As has been done every year during the CAST PH Staged Reading Series, the titles of the plays are not revealed beforehand. The season takes place over the course of four weeks (every Sunday), and Play #3 on Jan. 25, will be directed by Guelan Varela-Luarca. It will star Jenny Jamora, Zoë De Ocampo, Jam Binay, Frances Makil-Ignacio, Dolly de Leon, and Roselyn Perez, with stage directions to be read by Monty Uy. The season ends on Feb. 1 with Play #4 which will be directed by Caisa Borromeo. It will feature Jillian Ita-as, Kakki Teodoro, George Schulze, Yanah Laurel, Alfredo Reyes, and Miren Alvarez-Fabregas. There are only 100 seats per performance, priced at P500 each. For tickets, visit https://tinyurl.com/vrdfrfwm. All performances will be held at The Mirror Theatre Studios, 5th floor, SJG Center, Kalayaan Ave., Makati City. Performances are at 3 and 8 p.m.

Try out new fitness experiences at GH Mall

GH MALL at San Juan’s Greenhills Shopping Center, balances the overindulgence of the Christmas season by going healthy in January and offering a lineup of sports and wellness activities. There is the Table Tennis Academy, running until Jan. 31 at the 4F Tech Hub. Mallgoers can also play pickleball at the 5th floor until Jan. 31. The “Motion in Glow” Zumba sessions at the 6F roof deck run every Monday from 5 to 7 p.m. “Step & Groove” dance sessions occur in the same location and at the same time on Wednesdays, while yoga is available on Fridays.

Do not sing along with Les Miz

THAT is the plea of GMG Productions which has brought Les Misérables: World Tour Spectacular, a reimagined staged concert production of the iconic musical, to the Philippines. “Let the cast tell the story,” it exhorts. That cast includes Filipinos: Lea Salonga and Red Concepcion as the Thenardiers, Rachelle Ann Go as Fantine, and Emily Bautista as Eponine. The expanded concert-like format features a new design and production enhanced with new set and lighting designs, bringing Cameron Mackintosh’s critically acclaimed production to life on a scale never seen before in Manila, with a company and crew of over 110, including an international all-star cast and a large ensemble of musicians. Les Misérables runs at the Theater at Solaire, Solaire Resort & Casino, Entertainment City, Aseana Ave., Parañaque from Jan. 20 to March 1, with no extensions possible. As of now, all 48 shows are sold out. But keep checking as you never know.

Enjoy a bit of timely satire

THE Corner Studio presents People v. Dela Cruz, a one-act satirical play that looks at online behavior by using the Philippines’ first-ever jury case as its frame. According to Theater Fans Manila, People v. Dela Cruz takes a country testing its new jury system and turns legal deliberation into a circus of ego, politics, prayer, hunger, and possibly Wi-Fi withdrawal. Written and directed by Eldrin Veloso, it stars Mark Aranal, Emlyn Olfindo-Santos, JP Basco, Althea Aruta, Pauline Arejola, Rain de Jesus, and Aaron Dioquino. The show has performances on Jan. 23, 7 p.m., and Jan. 24 at 3 and 7 p.m., The Corner Studio, J&T Building, 3894 Magsaysay Blvd., Santa Mesa, Manila. Tickets are priced at P800 and are available for purchase via Helixpay.

Get nostalgic with Bagets the Musical

BAGETS THE MUSICAL, a stage adaptation of the 1984 coming-of-age film Bagets, follows a group of high school friends navigating adolescence, family, friendship, and young love. This production by Newport World Resorts, The Philippine Star, and VIVA Communications, is directed by Maribel Legarda, with a book by J-mee Katanyag and music by Vince Lim. The five leads are played by Sam Shoaf, Milo Cruz, Noel Comia, Jr., Ethan David, and Andres Muhlach. They alternate with Jeff Moses, Migo Valid, Tomas Rodriguez, KD Estrada, and Mico Hendrix Chua. Also in the cast are Neomi Gonzales, Natasha Cabrera, Mayen Cadd, Ring Antonio, and Carla Guevara Laforteza. Bagets the Musical opens on Jan. 23 and runs until March at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Pasay City. Tickets, ranging in price from P1,000 to P4,000, are now available at the Newport World Resorts Box Office and via TicketWorld.

Glimpse artifacts of Philippine devotion at NCCA

THE National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) has opened the Balaang Bata exhibit, which explores the enduring Filipino devotion to the Santo Niño. On view at the NCCA Gallery in Intramuros, Manila, it features a diverse selection of Santo Niño images and sculptures from across the country, bringing together treasured works from private collections that reflect centuries of personal faith, artistry, and cultural tradition surrounding the Holy Child. Many of the pieces on display are more than a century old, carved from various types of wood and shaped by everyday devotion passed down through generations. The exhibit is open to the public.

Watch chimpanzee thriller Primate in cinemas

PRACTICAL EFFECTS in the new movie Primate, helmed by filmmaker Johannes Roberts, bring the character of Ben the chimpanzee to life. Billed as a shocking, bone-chilling tale, it follows a group of teens who are terrorized when their pet chimp suddenly turns on them. It combines visceral terror with old-school, in-camera special effects. Primate is now showing in cinemas nationwide.

Listen to Charlie Puth’s new single

AWARD-WINNING artist, producer, musician and songwriter Charlie Puth has released his latest single, “Beat Yourself Up,” from his forthcoming studio album Whatever’s Clever!, which will be out in March. Co-produced by Mr. Puth and BLOODPOP, the track is personal and explorative, accompanied by an official music video directed by Hunter Moreno. It is out now on all digital music streaming platforms.

Watch Abbott Elementary, 9-1-1: Nashville on Disney+

THIS JANUARY, several acclaimed and long-running titles are streaming new episodes on Disney+. One of these is crime-dramedy series High Potential, starring Kaitlin Olson as extraordinary and eccentric Morgan Gillory, a cleaning lady for the Los Angeles Police Department recruited as an investigative consultant. Another is the returning 9-1-1 and its newest spinoff, 9-1-1: Nashville, updating the drama franchise that follows different first responders in their day jobs. There’s also the critically acclaimed mockumentary Abbott Elementary, created by and starring Quinta Brunson, centered on a group of dedicated, underfunded teachers in a fictional public school in Philadelphia.

Listen to Cavetown’s new album

CAVETOWN, the moniker of UK-born artist Robin Skinner, has released his new album, Running With Scissors, via Futures Music Group. The record is emotionally expansive and aims to capture the disorienting threshold between youth and adulthood, braided together sonically through hyper-pop, heavy guitars, and dream-pop sounds. Alongside the album is the lead single and music video for “Cryptid,” which explores Skinner’s experience as a transgender person. The album is out now on digital music streaming platforms.

1...400401402...14,244Page 401 of 14,244
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
© 2024 BusinessWorld Publishing.
All rights reserved.
Read our privacy guidelines
Facebook Instagram Linkedin X Youtube