SM Supermalls serves up summer action with Pickleball Trio Challenge and PBF Youth Cup

From fast-paced pickleball action to rising bowling stars, SM brings more ways to compete and connect

Reinforcing its commitment to building active communities and developing the next generation of athletes, SM Supermalls is rolling out two exciting tournament experiences this season—the SM Active Hub Pickleball Trio Challenge and the first-ever PBF Youth Cup for aspiring bowlers.

Double the action at SM -- rally on the court, roll on the lanes, and enjoy a maxed-out experience built for competition, connection, and fun

SM Active Hub Pickleball Trio Challenge: Rallying communities through sport
SM Supermalls takes the spotlight with the fast-growing sport of pickleball through the SM Active Hub Pickleball Trio Challenge, a tournament series that brings together competition, teamwork, and community.

Canadian champion Mackonner Dy (left) connects with the growing pickleball community at SM City Marikina, sharing a paddle tap with fellow players during his recent visit

The series will feature five qualifying legs and one final across select SM malls: May 17 at SM City Bicutan, May 24 at SM City Sta. Mesa, June 7 at SM City Santa Rosa, June 28 at SM City Marikina, and July 5 at SM Center Muntinlupa. The finals will take place on July 12 at Four E-Com Center, SM Active Hub’s newest pickleball venue, featuring six courts.

Game on at the SM Active Hub Pickleball Trio Challenge -- where every rally brings teams together for a fast-paced, maxed-out experience

Open to the DUPR 9 and DUPR 11 categories, the Trio Challenge introduces a unique format in which teams of three must include at least one woman—encouraging inclusivity, strategy, and stronger team dynamics.

Registration is priced at P5,700 per team.

Mounted in partnership with SM Active Hub, Paloo, Sports Central, Milo, Nature’s Spring, and Picklecrew PH, the tournament offers players more ways to stay active, compete, and connect—creating spaces where communities come together and thrive.

PBF Youth Cup: A new stage for rising bowling stars

Young bowlers take their shot at the PBF Youth Cup at SM Bowling, where every frame is a chance to build skills, gain confidence, and discover winning begins.

Alongside pickleball, SM Supermalls continues to champion youth development through the PBF Youth Cup, launched in partnership with the Philippine Bowling Federation (PBF). The nationwide tournament gives aspiring bowlers a platform to compete, grow, and shine.

SM Supermalls continues to create spaces where young athletes can showcase their skills, gain valuable experience, and pursue their passion—proving that where winning begins is within reach.

“Your most-loved SM Supermalls believes in nurturing the next generation of athletes. We are committed to providing them with a space to develop their abilities and give them opportunities to hone their talents—proving that winning begins at SM Bowling and SM Game Park,” said SM Supermalls Senior Assistant Vice President for Sports and Leisure Joseph Francis Silva.

The tournament features two age divisions: 16 and below, and 17 to 21, with male and female categories. It will follow a single-player format across participating SM Supermalls branches.

Qualifying rounds run from April 8 to May 13, 2026. From there, all center champions will advance to the Center Finals, with the top bowlers advancing to the National Finals at SM North EDSA on May 31, 2026.

Top finishers will receive medals, exclusive goodies, and up to six months of free bowling at SM Bowling, while those who achieve a perfect game throughout the tournament will earn one year of free bowling.

“By bringing together communities and future champions, SM Supermalls continues to deliver a maxed-out experience—creating opportunities where athletes can grow, compete, and win,” Silva added.

For more information about the SM Active Hub Pickleball Trio Challenge and the PBF Youth Cup, visit the official SM Bowling and SM Game Park Facebook pages.

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Philippine Opera Company Stages Master Class This May, with Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo as Maria Callas

The Philippine Opera Company (POC) brings back the acclaimed Tony Award-winning play Master Class, opening this May at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Makati, for a limited three-weekend run beginning May 15.

Headlining the production is acclaimed theater icon Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo, who takes on the formidable role of legendary opera diva Maria Callas. Revered as one of the greatest sopranos of the 20th century, Callas was celebrated not only for her voice, but for her intensity, artistry, and uncompromising standards.

Written by Terrence McNally, Master Class imagines Callas in the twilight of her career, conducting a demanding vocal workshop inspired by the real-life master classes she gave at Juilliard School in the early 1970s. As she coaches three young singers, Callas also reveals memories of triumph, heartbreak, sacrifice, and the cost of greatness.

Joining Lauchengco-Yulo in the cast are Louie Oca as Manny, the accompanist and collaborator on piano, alongside Alexandra Bernas as Sophie, Arman Ferrer as Anthony, and Angeli Benipayo as Sharon — the three aspiring singers who step into Callas’ intimidating orbit. 

 

 

Louie Oca, Alexandra Bernas, Arman Ferrer and Angeli Benipayo

The production is directed by Jaime del Mundo, whose vision underscores the play’s enduring relevance: that art, mentorship, discipline, and legacy remain essential in today’s world.

This revival also carries a poignant connection to Philippine theater history. POC previously staged Master Class in 2008, with the late Cherie Gil delivering a celebrated performance as Maria Callas. Her portrayal remains remembered as one of the standout interpretations of the role in the local stage scene.

Now, a new generation of audiences can rediscover the brilliance of McNally’s masterpiece through a fresh staging led by one of the country’s most respected performers.

Master Class is presented by the Philippine Opera Company for a limited engagement this May at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Makati. Tickets and show schedules are available through official POC channels.

Tickets available at Philippine Opera Company (09176452946) and @Ticket2Me https://ticket2me.net/MASTERCLASS.

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The MacBook Neo is Here—Now Made More Affordable with GGives

Catch the MacBook Neo drop with GGives—freebies plus easy 0.9% monthly installments

The wait is over—the new MacBook Neo officially drops in the Philippines at 7:00 pm on April 23. Whether you’re powering through work, school, or side hustles, this is the must-have tool that keeps up with you and is fit for you. If it’s already on your list, now’s the right time to make the move.

And with GGives, availing becomes more manageable through lighter and affordable terms while enjoying promos from partner merchants.

Making It More Within Reach with GGives
Pre-order the MacBook Neo through GGives and enjoy a lighter way to pay with flexible installments. During the pre-order period from April 11 to 23, 2026, you can also take advantage of no down payment and a low 0.9% interest rate, making it even more affordable to upgrade.

Plus, when you pre-order from select partner merchants, you’ll receive exclusive freebies (*until supplies last):

• Abenson & Electroworld - Free JisuLife Fan*
• Beyond the Box, Digital Walker, & Open Source by Beyond the Box - Free Momax Powerbank*
• Power Mac Center - Free pair of Apple Earpods 3.5mm headphone plug*
• The Loop - Free Anker Soundcore R50i NC True Wireless BT Earbuds*
• Digimap & Digiplanet - Free AmazingThing Polishing Cloth*

To avail of these offers, eligible users simply need to:

• Be a GCash user with an active GGives account
• Choose GGives as their payment option in-store and select a 12- or 24-month plan

If you’re not yet activated, just head to the GCash app, tap “Borrow”, select “GGives,” and complete the
quick application. Once approved, you’ll see your available credit limit (subject to evaluation).

With GGives, getting the MacBook Neo becomes lighter and more affordable—letting you balance what you need now with what works for your budget.

Access GCredit and GGives through your GCash dashboard or find them under “Borrow.” No GCash yet? Download the GCash App on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery.

For more details on the Apple Preferred 0.9% GGives Interest Rate Promo, visit https://gcash.com/promos/ggives-apple-exclusive-0-9-interest-rate-promo.

Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-253756 Series of 2026

Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-253724 Series of 2026.

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Gala To The Max Takes Over SM Malls in the East Metro

The Gala is Maxex out as PPop groups Cloud 7 and Yanna groove to the SM Supermalls' anthem at SM City Marikina (Screengrab from SM City Marikina)

The vibe is maxed out at SM Malls in the East as “Gala To The Max,” the newest anthem of SM Supermalls performed by rising P-Pop trio DNA in partnership with StarPop, comes to life through music, movement, and community. Across SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, SM City San Mateo, and SM Center Antipolo Downtown, mallgoers are stepping into a more dynamic kind of hangout—one that goes beyond the usual and brings every moment all out at their most loved malls.

Rising PPop Girl Group, DNA, leads the boppy Gala To The Max anthem of SM Supermalls

Powering the energy are rising P-Pop acts and young artists including Cloud 7 members Kairo, Egypt, Fian, Lucas, Migz, PJ, and Yohan; Yanna members Samantha, Bri, Reylie, Cheska, and Keziah; Yuna members Sachi, Faith, Sara, and Mhai; and solo performers Amiel, Tavis, Marcky, and Duna. Together, they turn each mall stop into a stage for expression, connection, and shared moments that totally match today’s vibe.

PPop cuties Yanna also grooves their way to SM Center Antipolo Downtown for Gala To The Max anthem
(Screengrab from SM Center Antipolo Downtown)

Girl group Yuna tours at SM City Masinag as they Gala To The Max
(Screengrab from SM City Masinag)

More than just an anthem, “Gala To The Max” transforms everyday malling into something more meaningful—where barkadas, fans, and families come together, find their tribe, and create moments that feel personal, spontaneous, and real. It’s a celebration of individuality and community, all happening in a space that feels like home.

Young artists Duna, Amiel, Tavis and Marcky dancing to Gala To The Max anthem in SM City San Mateo
(Screengrab from SM City San Mateo)

Round up your crew, bring your vibe, and gala to the max at SM Supermalls in the East—then follow your favorite malls’ official social media pages and join the Gala To The Max dance challenge. Show off your moves and be part of the movement.

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Mayor Isko Moreno and wife Dynee to lead as Hermano and Hermana Mayor at Flores de Mayo in Manila

Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso has graciously accepted the invitation to serve as Hermano Mayor of Flores de Mayo, with his wife, Mrs. Diana Lyn “Dynee” Domagoso, accepting the role of Hermana Mayor, lending their full support to the revival of a cherished celebration of faith, culture, and fashion.

Set on May 3, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at The Manila Hotel and Quirino Grandstand, this year’s theme, “Dalisay at Halimuyak”, draws from the ideas of purity and fragrance. During a courtesy call by The Manila Hotel President Atty. Joey Lina, Mayor Isko expressed his support for the event and the value of initiatives that uplift the community, honor Manila’s legacy, and create opportunities for artists and designers to contribute to a tradition deeply rooted in Filipino faith and identity. He noted, “Maaalala natin ang pamana sa atin.”

The event is mounted by The Manila Hotel, in partnership with the City Government of Manila and the Fashion Designers Association of the Philippines (FDAP), with support from Manila, My Manila of the Department of Tourism, Culture and Arts of Manila (DTCAM).

A long-standing Catholic tradition in the Philippines dating back to the 1800s, Flores de Mayo remains one of the country’s enduring expressions of Marian devotion. At The Manila Hotel, the celebration assumed a distinctive place in Manila’s cultural calendar beginning in 1979 through the Congregacion del Santisimo Nombre de Niño Jesus, established that same year with Ben Farrales, the Dean of Filipino Fashion, as founding chair.

From the outset, the tradition linked Marian devotion with Manila’s cultural life. Revived in 2019 before being paused by the pandemic, it returns this year as a tribute to a city where faith, culture, and fashion continue to meet.

This year’s celebration also carries a meaningful social purpose, with proceeds and partnerships intended to benefit Young Focus and the Children’s First 1000 Days Coalition, supporting programs for children, families, education, and nutrition.

Further expressing his enthusiasm for the procession, Mayor Isko said: “Wala nang gasolinang kailangan dahil lakad ito. Ang ganda naman... we practice what we preach. Sabi ko, energy saving.” His remark reflected his support for a celebration that offers hope and solidarity amid today’s global challenges.

Meanwhile, the event is also in close coordination with government partners for security and traffic management for an orderly celebration. The Philippine National Police (PNP) has committed at least 300 personnel for security, while the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will assist in traffic management. The participation of the Armed Forces of the Philippines as arch bearers is also being arranged.

With Mayor Isko and Mrs. Domagoso serving as Hermano Mayor and Hermana Mayor, Flores de Mayo at The Manila Hotel is poised to become one of Manila’s most visible cultural events of the season — honoring a beloved Filipino tradition while reaffirming the capital’s place as a center of devotion, heritage, and civic life.

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Starbucks Philippines invites everyone to be a Community Champion this Global Month of Good

As part of its annual Global Month of Good celebration, Starbucks Philippines is reinforcing its commitment to the communities it serves – while inviting more Filipinos to take part in their own way.

This year, Starbucks highlights a simple but powerful idea: anyone can be a Community Champion through small, everyday actions that create meaningful change for the environment, the community, and other people.

“Our local initiatives are grounded in the belief that meaningful change starts with strong community connections,” said Jamie Silva, senior manager for Marketing, Digital Customer Experience and Social Impact, Starbucks Philippines. “From education to disaster response initiatives and partner volunteerism, 2025 reflects how collective action can create lasting impact.”

In 2026, Starbucks Philippines is expanding its community impact initiatives through strengthened partnerships, improved access to essentials, and more opportunities for both partners (employees) and customers to take part in meaningful action.

Supporting Communities Where They Need the Most

Through its partnership with Planet Water Foundation and The Starbucks Foundation, Starbucks

Philippines provides clean water access and hygiene education to an estimated 42,400 people in various

regions around the country. This April, a ninth AquaTower will be installed in Camarines Sur, extending

access to safe drinking to around 7,000 more individuals.

Starbucks Philippines also continues its longstanding partnership with HOPE to support education. Each

year, Starbucks partners (employees) come together to help build safe and inspiring learning spaces for

underserved communities. This year marks the completion of a sixth public school classroom in

Sarangani in April, helping provide safe and conducive learning spaces for students in the community.

Alongside its community initiatives, Starbucks Philippines is also strengthening its sustainability efforts

within its store operations. Starbucks Philippines has partnered with MPower to supply electricity to

around 60 Metro Manila stores under the Retail Aggregation Program. This partnership is expected to

result in improved operational efficiency while supporting long-term sustainability goals.

Continuing Efforts Powered by Volunteerism

Starbucks’ commitment to being a Community Champion is also reflected through volunteerism and

everyday participation.

Starbucks Community Stores in Abad Santos, Tondo, and Maysilo Circle continue to support education

programs in partnership with AHA! Learning Center, Young Focus Foundation, and Mano Amiga

Philippines. To date, more than 1,500 learners have benefited from after-school sessions, literacy

development activities, and leadership-building programs that help them gain confidence and stay

engaged in school.

Addressing food insecurity remains a key focus. Through its FoodShare program, Starbucks has

redirected nearly 3 million rescuable food items from close to 300 stores nationwide. In partnership with

The Philippine Food Bank Foundation and Grab Philippines, surplus food is distributed to various

communities.

Beyond these organized programs, Starbucks encourages customers to take part in simple, everyday

actions throughout Global Month of Good. In their own small way, store visits can become part of the

impact. Customers can use for-here ware or bring their own tumblers for their coffee orders and enjoy a

PHP 10 discount.

Simple actions, when done together, can create a meaningful impact over time. This Global Month of

Good, everyone is invited to be a Community Champion. To learn more about the Global Month of Good,

visit starbucks.ph/social-impact.

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The MSO Centennial Season Concert II – From Mozart to Mahler

Presented by the Manila Symphony Orchestra Foundation, Inc. and Standard Insurance; co-presented by EastWest Bank in partnership with the Austrian Embassy and University of Santo Tomas

Led by Venezuelan conductor Joshua Dos Santos, the Manila Symphony Orchestra continues its Centennial Season with a program that moves from the refined discipline of Classical style to the emotional breadth of the late Romantic symphony.

Manila Symphony Orchestra

The evening opens with Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Sinfonia concertante in E-flat, K. 364 for violin and viola, a work celebrated for its technical precision. The piece features rising Filipino artists Emanuel John Villarin (violin) and Christian Wrona (viola), whose musical dialogue reflects the expressive restraints of Mozart’s music.

The program culminates in Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 1, a work that demands expressive depth. Expansive in scale and rich in emotional contrasts, Mahler’s symphony transforms simple melodies, challenging both the orchestra and the audience with its intensity. The MSO will be joined by selected members of the UST Symphony Orchestra in a side-by-side performance to celebrate the 80th Anniversary of the UST Conservatory of Music, as many past and current MSO musicians have been connected to UST as students and faculty members.

From Classical to Romantic, From Mozart to Mahler highlights the versatility of the Manila Symphony Orchestra and its scholars as they continue their journey through the 100th season.

Joshua Dos Santos, guest conductor

Joshua is an internationally celebrated conductor whose career has spanned Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Trained in Venezuela's legendary El Sistema, he began music at age seven and made his conducting debut at sixteen under the mentorship of Maestro José Antonio Abreu. Appointed associate conductor of the Simon Bolivar Chamber Orchestra in 2023 he has earned major acclaim from around the world.

Emanuel John Villarin, violin

EJ is an award-winning violinist and Hanns Eisler scholar. An student at the Universität für Musik Hanns Eisler Berlin and first prize winner of the New York Young Performers Prize (2021) and NAMCYA (2020), he is an acclaimed Filipino violinist and MSJO-Standard Insurance scholar, performing on a master-crafted Gencer Cerit Eskisehir violin.

Christian Wrona, viola

Christian is a Filipino-Canadian violist and Hanns Eisler scholar. Currently studying at the Hochschule für Musik Hanns Eisler Berlin, Christian is an Asian Youth Orchestra alumnus, mentored by renowned artists including Tabea Zimmermann and Kim Kashkashian.

UST Symphony Orchestra

The University of Santo Tomas Symphony Orchestra (USTSO), established in 1927, is a distinguished ensemble within the UST Conservatory of Music. It holds the unique distinction of being the only all-student symphony orchestra in the Philippines. Under the baton of Assoc. Prof. Herminigildo Ranera, the orchestra has showcased a diverse repertoire, ranging from classical masterpieces to contemporary works.

Tickets available at Ticketworld:

• P5000 VIP
• P3500 Orchestra Center
• P3000 Orchestra Sides
• P2000 Balcony Center
• P1500 Balcony Sides

Special Offer - 20% Early Bird (valid until May 1, 11:59PM)
Code: MOZARTMAHLEREB20

Free VIP tickets for MSO All Access Subscribers

• 50% Students
• 20% Seniors and PWDs

Please DM your valid IDs to get your discount codes

Save up to 50% off with the MSO All-Access Season Pass!

Check out MSO's social media accounts to sign up.

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Website – www.manilasymphony.com

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