by Ferry Bayu | Oct 28, 2026 | Business
A difficult search for a treadmill technician inspired Julian Markus Villaflores, 11, to start No DIY in Cebu. Built with student developers and supported by his family, the home and repair services marketplace is inviting service professionals to register ahead of its customer rollout.
A broken treadmill at home gave 11-year-old Julian Markus Villaflores the idea for No DIY, a marketplace that aims to help households find skilled workers and service professionals. The Cebu-based platform is now inviting professionals to register ahead of its customer rollout.
It started with one repair
Julian Markus watched his father ask around, search online and call for help, yet finding a treadmill technician still took time. A household needed a repair, but reaching the right person was difficult. No DIY aims to give families another place to look and professionals another way to reach customers beyond their existing contacts.
“I saw my dad try so hard just to find one person who could fix it,” Julian Markus said. “There are so many good technicians out there. They just can’t find each other. I wanted to make that easy.”
Built with student teams
Julian Markus brought the idea to ASV Business Solution, the Cebu software company led by his mother, April Villaflores. The company, which develops Cirquolus, runs an internship program for Computer Science and IT students from universities across the Philippines.
Students from La Salle University in Ozamiz City laid the initial foundation. A team from Cebu Technological University-Ginatilan Extension conducted social surveys and market-fit analysis. Interns from Northwest Samar State University continued development and completed the app. As each batch finished its required hours, the work passed to the next team.
“Every batch knew they might not be the ones to finish it, and they gave it their best anyway,” said April Villaflores, managing owner of ASV Business Solution. “Julian learned what it means to lead. The students learned what it means to build something real people will use.”
Learning within Cebu’s startup community
Alongside his work on No DIY, Julian is actively involved in Cebu City’s startup community. He participates in Sugod Bahay gatherings and a startup development program through StellarPH and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). These activities give him opportunities to learn alongside other entrepreneurs, with support from his family and the student developers who helped build the platform.
Service professionals invited to register
No DIY is welcoming technicians, electricians, plumbers, aircon and appliance repair specialists, carpenters and other service professionals to create profiles ahead of its customer rollout. A profile gives professionals a place to explain what they offer and helps potential customers find services that match their needs.
Professionals can register at https://no-diy.com/auth/register
About No DIY Technologies
No DIY is a Philippine marketplace founded by Julian Markus Villaflores in Cebu to connect households with skilled workers and service professionals. It is currently accepting professional registrations ahead of its customer rollout. Website: https://no-diy.com/
ASV Business Solution is a software company based at UPinIT, Gorordo Avenue, Lahug, Cebu City. It develops Cirquolus ERP and runs an internship program for Computer Science and IT students. Student teams in the program contributed to the development of No DIY.
by Ferry Bayu | Oct 28, 2026 | Business
SM City Cabanatuan and SM Megacenter Christmas Centerpiece Launch Held on October 22 and 23, respectively, the Christmas Centerpiece Launch is part of SM Supermalls’ annual tradition of simultaneously unveiling festive holiday displays that bring the magic of Christmas to life and delight mallgoers.
The most wonderful time of the year shines brighter as your most loved SM City Cabanatuan and SM Megacenter Cabanatuan unveil their enchanting Christmas displays, bringing festive magic, dazzling lights, and heartwarming holiday experiences to shoppers and families across the city.
With “A Symphony of Sparkles” at SM City Cabanatuan and “An Elf-Tastic World of Sparkles” at SM Megacenter Cabanatuan, the two malls invite everyone to celebrate the season through captivating holiday wonderlands filled with imagination, joy, and the spirit of Filipino Christmas traditions. Each destination offers its own magical experience, creating more reasons for families and friends to come together and enjoy a maxed-out Christmas experience.
At SM City Cabanatuan, A Symphony of Sparkles transforms the mall into a breathtaking holiday wonderland inspired by the graceful art of ballet. Taking center stage is a majestic 35-foot Christmas tree, glowing brilliantly amid shimmering trees, radiant golden accents, and elegant ballerina figures. Every sparkling detail creates a harmonious spectacle of beauty and festive charm, celebrating the Filipino spirit that moves to the rhythm of everyday life through joyful celebrations, cherished traditions, and meaningful moments shared with loved ones.
Meanwhile, SM Megacenter Cabanatuan brings a playful touch to the holidays with An Elf-Tastic World of Sparkles. Amid a 15-foot Christmas tree, oversized Christmas ornaments, twinkling holiday lights, and dazzling festive accents, merry little elves busily prepare gifts and spread Christmas cheer. This whimsical display invites families, friends, and guests of all ages to step into an enchanting world where imagination comes alive and every corner holds a delightful holiday surprise.
Though different in theme, both Christmas displays share one beautiful message: the magic of Christmas shines brightest when shared. From admiring the graceful ballerinas at SM City Cabanatuan to discovering the playful elves at SM Megacenter Cabanatuan, shoppers can look forward to memorable moments filled with laughter, wonder, and togetherness. These festive showcases provide picture-perfect backdrops for holiday photos, family bonding, and treasured memories that last long after the season ends.
More than spectacular decorations, these Christmas celebrations reflect the warmth and generosity at the heart of Filipino traditions. They create welcoming spaces where families reconnect, friends celebrate, and communities come together to embrace the simple joys of the season. Every twinkling light, shimmering ornament, and enchanting detail serves as a reminder that Christmas is not only about the beauty surrounding us, but also about the love, kindness, and happiness we share.
This holiday season, your most loved SM City Cabanatuan and SM Megacenter Cabanatuan invite everyone to make the most of the festivities with magical experiences that bring the Christmas spirit to life. Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of ballet or the playful charm of Christmas elves, there’s a wonderland waiting to make your holidays extra special.
Gala to the max and celebrate the season with your loved ones at SM City Cabanatuan and SM Megacenter Cabanatuan! Discover two enchanting Christmas worlds, capture unforgettable moments, and let every sparkle remind you of the joy of being together. Because at SM, Christmas isn’t just celebrated — it’s shared, creating magical memories that make the season truly shine.
About SM Supermalls Cabanatuan
About SM Supermalls SM Supermalls is one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China. For generations, SM has grown alongside Filipino communities by creating destinations where people, businesses, and opportunities come together. Through “My SM,” SM continues to evolve with the changing lifestyles and needs of Filipino communities, reimagining the mall experience through thoughtfully designed spaces, better connectivity, innovative digital conveniences, and meaningful experiences that foster connection and strengthen communities.
My SM. Your Most Loved Supermall.
by Ferry Bayu | Oct 28, 2026 | Business
Co-hosted with Thailand’s Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, the Summit will bring regional leaders together to address cross-border scam networks, victim protection and AI-driven threats BANGKOK, THAILAND, October 26, 2026 — The Global Anti-Scam Alliance (GASA), Gogolook, the developer of Whoscall, and Meta will bring the Global Anti-Scam Summit Asia to Bangkok for the first time on November 10–11, 2026. Held at Pullman Bangkok King Power, the two-day Summit will bring together government officials, law enforcement agencies, financial institutions, telecommunications providers, technology companies, researchers and civil society organisations to strengthen the region’s collective response to scams.
Co-hosted by GASA, Royal Thai Police (RTP), and Thailand’s Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (MDES), the Summit is supported by organisations including Gogolook, Meta, Google, Trend Micro, CUBE AI, and Outseer. H.E. Chaichanok Chidchob, Thailand’s Minister of Digital Economy and Society, is scheduled to deliver the opening keynote on Thailand’s leadership in building a safer digital future.
“Scam networks operate across borders and digital channels, so our response must connect the organisations that can prevent harm, support victims and disrupt criminal operations,” said Jorij Abraham, Managing Director of GASA. “As a major regional hub, Thailand faces the challenges posed by transnational scam networks. Its policies and actions can play a pivotal role in strengthening safety across Southeast Asia. Bringing the Summit to Bangkok gives leaders from across the region an opportunity to turn shared insights into practical cooperation.”
The Summit will present findings from the State of Scams in Asia 2026 report and unveil the State of Scams in Thailand 2026 report, offering both a regional perspective and a closer look at the challenges facing Thailand. The findings will provide a starting point for discussions on how governments and industries can identify emerging threats and coordinate their responses.
The programme will examine the human and operational impact of scam compounds, including survivor experiences and cross-border responses to trafficking. Sessions will also address the financial infrastructure behind scams, national anti-scam systems, AI-enabled threats, safer digital services, and the role of telecommunications providers in tackling fraudulent calls and messages. On the second day, GASA working groups will bring participants together to advance cooperation in research, enforcement, intelligence sharing, prevention and consumer education.
“Scams rarely stay within one platform, industry or country. Protecting people requires us to identify risks earlier and share the intelligence needed to act across the entire scam journey,” said Jeff Kuo, Co-founder and CEO of Gogolook. “Our participation in previous Asia Summits, from Taipei to Singapore, has shown us the value of bringing different sectors together. We look forward to building on those connections in Bangkok and working with partners across the region to strengthen practical defences against scams.”
The Summit will also host the Scam Fighter Awards, recognising initiatives that have made a measurable contribution to scam prevention, detection, disruption and enforcement.
Registration for the Global Anti-Scam Summit Asia 2026 is now open. Government agencies, businesses, researchers and other organisations working on digital safety are invited to join the discussions, learn from the latest anti-scam research and connect with partners from across the region. For the programme and registration details, visit the Summit website.
About Global Anti-Scam Alliance
About the Global Anti-Scam Alliance The Global Anti-Scam Alliance (GASA) is a nonprofit organization bringing together policymakers, law enforcement, consumer authorities, NGOs, the financial sector, telecommunications operators, internet platforms, cybersecurity organizations and other stakeholders to share knowledge and develop solutions to protect consumers from scams. GASA Website: https://gasa.org/
by Ferry Bayu | Oct 28, 2026 | Business
Going to college in the Philippines is now tuition-free at state universities, but for millions of public high school graduates, the real hurdle isn’t the cost of tuition—it’s passing difficult entrance exams like the PUPCET and UPCAT.
To help more students succeed, AHEAD Education Group, the team behind AHEAD Tutorial and Review’s 31 years of excellent service, has launched ReviewLab. This new online platform offers simple, affordable, and easy-to-access review programs built specifically for students taking exams at State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) across the country.
As part of this initiative, AHEAD is also launching a major advocacy effort: providing 90,000 free review slots specifically for public high school students nationwide.
Making College Entrance Review Equal for Everyone
While the Free Higher Education Law (RA 10931) covers tuition at state colleges, getting accepted is harder than ever. Hundreds of thousands of applicants compete for limited slots every year. Students from private schools or families who can pay for expensive review programs often have a big advantage.
ReviewLab aims to change that. By combining AHEAD’s 31-year teaching background with online tools, ReviewLab brings quality exam prep directly to students preparing for Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), University of the Philippines (UP), and other public state colleges.
“Education can change a young person’s life,” said Rossana Llenado, Founder and Chair of AHEAD Education Group. “Many public high school students have the skill and talent, but they don’t always get the study support they need for college entrance tests. Through ReviewLab and our 90,000 free review slots, we want to give every hardworking student an equal chance to enter their dream university.”
Proven Test Strategies Made Easy and Accessible
Official government data highlights the huge demand for higher education in the Philippines. The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reports around 32 million young Filipinos enrolled in school, while the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) notes that over 2.6 million students currently benefit from free college tuition in state schools. Yet, many high school seniors miss out on state college slots simply because they are nervous, lack test-taking strategies, or aren’t familiar with standard test formats.
Built using proven study methods from AHEAD Education Group, ReviewLab offers live online classes and practice drills that break down entrance exams into easy-to-understand sessions and practical strategy tips.
“Our main brand, AHEAD Tutorial and Review, will always offer intensive and specialized review classes meant for UP, Ateneo, La Salle, and UST entrance tests,” Llenado shared. “ReviewLab lets us reach far more students online who are specifically targeting SUCs. We want to make sure that money or distance never stops a student from earning a college degree.”
A Nationwide Advocacy: “Lab Kita, Support Kita”
To reach students who need help the most, ReviewLab is rolling out its 90,000 free slots Initiative alongside the ReviewLab Scholarship Program. ReviewLab will work closely with public high schools, and youth-centric and socio-civic organizations to distribute free study access directly to students.
Living up to its motto, “Lab Kita, Support Kita”, ReviewLab is designed to be a helpful, encouraging companion for students as they take on one of the biggest milestones of their young lives.
Public high school teachers, student leaders, and high school seniors interested in applying for the 90,000 free review slots can visit reviewlab.ahead.edu.ph or follow ReviewLab’s social media channels for step-by-step instructions.
About AHEAD Tutorial and Review
AHEAD Tutorial and Review is the premier test preparation and academic tutorial center in the Philippines, with a 31-year track record of helping thousands of students gain admission into top universities, including UP, Ateneo, De La Salle, and UST. As the flagship brand of AHEAD Education Group, AHEAD continues to lead the industry in high-caliber test prep and academic intervention.
Expanding this legacy of educational excellence, AHEAD Education Group introduced ReviewLab, a social enterprise dedicated to democratizing college entrance test preparation. Built specifically for students aiming for State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) like PUP, UP, and major regional public universities, ReviewLab offers highly accessible, budget-friendly review programs and national scholarship initiatives to ensure every hardworking Filipino learner has a fair shot at higher education.
by Ferry Bayu | Oct 28, 2026 | Business
FAWCAR held the Philippine launch event for JOYEE, its mid-to-high-end new energy vehicle brand, at the World Trade Center Metro Manila. The event marked the grand debut of three key models: the JOYEE S04, S08 and N09.
The pure electric urban SUV JOYEE S04 is priced starting at ₱1,188,000; the JOYEE S08 full-size hybrid SUV is priced starting at ₱1,628,000; and the JOYEE N09 flagship B+ segment coupe, available in range-extended electric (REEV) and battery electric (BEV) versions, is priced starting at ₱1,968,000. Designed to meet the diverse needs of different families, these three models mark a new chapter in JOYEE’s commitment to the Philippine market.
With over 70 years of automotive manufacturing heritage and cumulative production and sales exceeding 65 million vehicles, FAW has established a strong presence in the global automotive industry. As a wholly owned subsidiary of FAW, FAWCAR builds on the Group’s extensive automotive expertise and technological heritage. Its portfolio includes BESTUNE, a mid-to-high-end conventional fuel vehicle brand, and JOYEE, a mid-to-high-end new energy vehicle brand, offering a comprehensive lineup of conventional fuel, battery electric, and hybrid vehicles. With cumulative production and sales exceeding 2.2 million vehicles, its products have been tested and refined through years of experience in global markets.
All three models launched in the Philippines have been specifically optimized for local driving conditions, including high temperatures, heavy rainfall, and urban traffic congestion. These enhancements reflect FAWCAR’s commitment to meeting the real-world mobility needs of Filipino families.
JOYEE S04: A Pure Electric Urban SUV – The Ideal Choice for Smart City Living
As JOYEE’s debut model, the S04 is designed for urban commuting, everyday driving and family getaways to nearby destinations. The S04 stands out with three key features: an aerodynamic design with a drag coefficient of just 0.248, a standard 1.2 m² panoramic sunroof with Low-E heat-insulating glass, and polymer carbon nano-coating technology for its power battery.
It further offers a range of compelling advantages, including an all-electric driving range of up to 565 km, energy consumption of just 11.8 kWh per 100 km, a generous 2,750 mm wheelbase, and an armored body structure featuring 73% high-strength steel. Its 3.3 kW vehicle-to-load (V2L) function further expands its versatility, powering outdoor activities such as camping, picnics, and social gatherings. With lower running costs, generous interior space, and enhanced safety, the S04 offers young families an electric mobility option that values practicality, affordability, and outdoor lifestyles.
JOYEE S08: A Full-size Hybrid SUV – The Ultimate Multi-Purpose Family Assistant
The JOYEE S08 is equipped with FAW’s advanced BMP Super Hybrid System, featuring a dedicated hybrid engine with a thermal efficiency of 45.21%. It delivers three segment-exclusive advantages and has earned four prestigious Chinese industry awards recognizing its hybrid platform, engine, body structure, and chassis.
With an all-electric driving range of up to 210 km and a combined driving range of up to 1,555 km, the S08 is well suited to both daily commuting and long-distance travel. Fuel consumption under battery-depleted conditions is as low as 3.9 L per 100 km, while energy consumption is just 11.9 kWh per 100 km. Its 2C fast-charging capability allows the battery to charge from 30% to 80% in approximately 20 minutes, significantly reducing charging concerns and turnaround time. A spacious 3,300 mm longitudinal cabin, a 590 L cargo compartment expandable to 1,800 L with the rear seats folded, and a reinforced body structure featuring a 9-horizontal-and-7-vertical cage design combine generous space with enhanced safety. By using electric power for shorter trips and hybrid power for longer journeys, the S08 offers lower fuel consumption, responsive performance, and ample space. It is an ideal choice for larger families, drivers without regular access to charging facilities, and those who frequently travel between cities.
JOYEE N09: A Flagship B+ Segment Sport Coupe for Work and Family
Available in both all-electric and range-extended versions, the JOYEE N09 is a flagship B+ segment sport coupe designed to combine distinctive styling, advanced in-car technology, and everyday practicality. Its features include a smart cockpit powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295P Dual-NPU platform, AI-powered multimodal interaction, a 23-speaker Dolby Atmos sound system, frameless doors with power-assisted soft-close functionality, and a nine-airbag safety configuration. The N09 has also earned three prestigious international design honors: Germany’s Red Dot Award, the U.S. MUSE Design Awards, and France’s Innovation Design Awards.
Built on an advanced 800V high-voltage platform with 6C ultra-fast charging, the N09 can add up to 325 km of driving range in just 7.5 minutes. Energy consumption is as low as 11.4 kWh per 100 km, while acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes just 6.4 seconds. A balanced 50:50 front-to-rear weight distribution, five-link independent rear suspension, and a professionally tuned chassis deliver an engaging driving experience without compromising premium passenger comfort. The N09 is designed for upwardly mobile families seeking a premium driving experience and cutting-edge technology.
The official launch of JOYEE in the Philippines marks an important milestone in FAWCAR’s global expansion of its new energy vehicle strategy. Looking ahead, FAWCAR will continue to strengthen its local network and enhance the end-to-end customer service experience, bringing advanced automotive technologies and intelligent mobility to more Filipino consumers.
The JOYEE S04, S08, and N09 are now officially available in the Philippine market. Customers are warmly invited to visit local brand showrooms to explore the models and experience them firsthand through test drives.
About FAWCAR
FAWCAR is the global automotive brand of FAW, one of China’s leading automotive manufacturers with over 70 years of industry experience and cumulative production and sales exceeding 65 million vehicles.
by Ferry Bayu | Oct 27, 2026 | Business
Planet Ocean Underwater Hotels, LLC invites all the resorts in the Philippines to explore partnerships offering guests an extraordinary Inner Space Eco-Tourism experience aboard patented, 26-room movable underwater hotels without requiring resorts to purchase them. Developed over 16 years, the zero-discharge concept combines underwater hospitality with a commitment of 16.5% of net profits to coral-reef restoration, while creating opportunities for international fabrication, Philippines maritime veteran co-ownership employment, local workforce training, marine-science education, and sustainable economic development.
KEY WEST, Fla. USA – October 21, 2026 – Planet Ocean Underwater Hotels, LLC, today invited resorts and relevant authorities in the Philippines to begin a technical evaluation of a partnership built around its patented movable underwater hotels.
The design, protected by U.S. Design Patent D-736,947, places 26 guestrooms about 30 feet below the surface at normal atmospheric pressure, accessible by four glass traction elevators inside two steel casings. The zero-discharge underwater hotel vessel stands on four retractable steel legs instead of permanent foundations or anchors, allowing it to be relocated for improved marine-life viewing or to avoid storms.
Participating Philippines resorts are not asked to purchase the movable underwater hotel vessel. Under the proposed host-resort arrangement, a resort would use a movable underwater hotel for an initial five-year term. Planet Ocean’s global funding structure, developed over 16 years, uses escrow accounts established by participating resorts under agreed terms.
Planet Ocean has committed 16.5 percent of its net profits to Philippines’s coral-reef restoration and marine conservation, with independent audits and public reporting. Philippines Scientists, universities, and conservation specialists would guide how those funds are used, including coral nurseries, reef monitoring, and, where scientifically appropriate, Biorock restoration.
The initiative traces back to December 2015, when a Maldivian diplomat approached founder Tony Webb after COP21 to ask how the design might help the island nation. Planet Ocean recently held discussions in Malé with the Maldives Minister of Tourism and Environment and an official from the Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources. The Minister said “yes” to the concept and, like the resorts that would offer guests a safe Inner Space Eco-Tourism experience, now wants to see the first movable underwater hotel built.
For 16 years, Tony Webb had never received a “yes.” Now, Planet Ocean is extending the same invitation to the Philippines’s 7,641 island nation.
Planet Ocean’s fabrication network spans five countries. Houma and Morgan City, Louisiana, serve as the U.S. fabrication base. The Philippines is envisioned as the new corporate world headquarters, fabrication and assembly, and the training center for Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean. Partners in China, South Korea, and Japan are expected to supply specialized steel and acrylic components and assist with the installation of triple-redundancy systems. Mass fabrication of 50 movable underwater hotels, in less than one year.
The program also aims to create pathways for qualified local Philippines maritime Coast Guard and Special Forces veterans co-ownerships. The young islanders, from school marine-science programs through technical training and university research now have new opportunities that never existed before.
“The Maldives asked in 2015. Today, we invite the Maldives and the Philippines,” said Tony Webb, Founder and Managing Director and a U.S. Navy veteran. “Restore the coral reefs. Train the people. Measure the results. We are ready for serious technical evaluation.”
Interested resorts and Philippines organizations can submit a licensing inquiry at:
www.planetoceanunderwaterhotel.com/global-licensing-opportunities.php
This is a true gift of new prosperities for the Philippines’s future.
About Planet Ocean Underwater Hotels, LLC
About Planet Ocean Underwater Hotels, LLC
Based in Florida, USA Planet Ocean Underwater Hotels is a self-funded company built on the principles of “Pay It Forward” and “People Helping People.” The company designed the world’s first movable underwater hotel, featuring one-atmosphere, zero-discharge underwater accommodations focused on Inner Space Eco-tourism, coral restoration, marine science, education, Philippine veteran co-ownerships, and employment.
More information is available at www.PlanetOceanUnderwaterHotel.com
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