GCash launches in-app beginner's guide to introduce crypto to everyday Filipinos

Through creative storytelling and accessibility, GCash makes cryptocurrency easier to understand for beginner investors

Interest in cryptocurrency continues to grow among Filipinos, with 96% showing awareness and over half expressing intent to invest within the year, according to a 2025 Consensys survey. Despite this high curiosity, many remain cautious and unsure where to begin.

To help everyday Filipinos take their first confident step into the world of crypto, finance super app GCash launches “A Beginner’s Guide to Cryptocurrency”, a free and exclusive in-app introduction to cryptocurrency, written and illustrated by Luis Buenaventura, Head of GCrypto. Buenaventura, a Filipino crypto author, artist, and entrepreneur, is widely recognized as a pioneer in the local and global crypto scene.

The Filipino-focused, narrative-style guide breaks down complex concepts like Bitcoin, wallets, and volatility through familiar and practical examples like inflation and daily budgeting, making the topic more approachable for crypto newbies.

“Storytelling makes learning personal and relatable. By grounding financial concepts into everyday examples, we aim to make complex topics like crypto approachable for anyone,” said Buenaventura.

Crypto: From Making Sense to Making Moves

Divided into eight chapters, the guide takes users through the fundamentals of crypto in a practical, easy- to-follow format that reflects the real financial experiences of Filipinos. It starts with why cryptocurrency was developed–tracing its roots to real-world economic challenges, particularly inflation and its impact on people’s savings and purchasing power. From there, it walks readers through Bitcoin's rise and volatility.

“Understanding why crypto matters is the first step to learning how to use it wisely,” Buenaventura noted.

“By helping them understand the balance of ‘high risk, high reward,’ we aim to set realistic expectations before they dive into actual investing.”

Once readers have a grasp of cryptocurrency, the book guides them towards taking their first careful step into investing. It emphasizes the importance of building traditional savings, maintaining diversified investments, and treating crypto as a complement—not a replacement—to other financial foundations.

The succeeding chapters explore the tools and mindsets needed to invest responsibly. It explains wallet apps, satoshis, and trading basics, and introduces other cryptocurrencies beyond Bitcoin, such as Ethereum, Solana, stablecoins, and high-volatility memecoins.

It also dives into the mindset behind investing, tackling topics like moments of doubt, the importance of discipline, and the value of long-term thinking. Ultimately, it brings the conversation back to purpose that crypto should serve real-life goals, helping Filipinos fund dreams, support their families, and celebrate financial progress responsibly.

“Our goal is to educate Filipinos on the responsible use of cryptocurrency, enabling them to take confident, informed steps into the future of finance,” Buenaventura added.

Crypto na Gets Mo

Accessible with just a few taps, “A Beginner’s Guide to Cryptocurrency” is now available through GCrypto, a secure marketplace within the GCash app where users can buy, sell, and learn about crypto safely.

“By publishing the book directly on the GCrypto platform, users can learn and explore at their own pace within a secure environment. This helps Filipinos build confidence and make informed decisions as they navigate the world of crypto,” said Buenaventura.

With streamlined registration, low minimum investment options, and a curated selection of reputable coins reviewed by security experts, GCrypto aims to make cryptocurrency more accessible and less intimidating for Filipino users.

Users can register and begin trading with just their fully verified GCash account, with no separate onboarding required. With investment entry points starting at just ₱200, GCrypto lowers the barrier for participation in the digital economy.

The platform also offers a carefully curated portfolio of trusted cryptocurrencies, helping users make informed choices among reputable coins vetted for security and reliability. It also supports seamless conversion between pesos and crypto, as well as blockchain transactions for sending and receiving funds, all within the GCash app.

Users can access the book by opening the GCash app, tapping ‘Grow,’ and selecting GCrypto.

Ready to take your first step into crypto? Download the GCash App on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery. Kaya mo, i-GCash mo!

Read More

A Legend Reborn: National Artists’ Rock Opera Ballet “Tales of the Manuvu” Returns to the Stage this 2026

Alice Reyes Dance Philippines (ARDP), in collaboration with the University of the Philippines, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, and the Cultural Center of the Philippines, with the generous support of the Office of Senator Pia Cayetano, is proud to announce the 2026 restaging of Tales of the Manuvu. Premiered in 1977, this production is the first Filipino rock opera ballet, masterfully weaving indigenous mythology with the vibrant energy of rock and pop music.

The 2026 season begins with performances at the University Theater, UP Diliman, on February 27–28, followed by a strictly limited run at the Proscenium Theater in Rockwell, Makati, on March 28–29.

A Historic Artistic Collaboration
This masterpiece was born from the creative synergy of legendary Filipino artists. National Artist Alice Reyes provided the visionary direction and choreography, while National Artist Bienvenido Lumbera penned the libretto. Crucial to its iconic sound was the music composed by OPM icon Dero Pedero, with additional music by the rock band Afterbirth. The original production also featured stars of the Philippine theater and music scene, including Boy Camara, Anthony Castelo, Haji Alejandro, Celeste Legaspi, and the debut of newfound talent, Leah Navarro.

Reflecting on the production’s origins, National Artist Alice Reyes notes:

“In 1976, Bien Lumbera and I were both delighted by E. Arsenio Manuel's folk tales... We agreed that the tales could be rich material for a rock-opera ballet, a dance concept still in its nascent state in the Philippines. We opened on February 25, 1977, to a packed house in the CCP and never looked back.

Forty-nine years later—and almost to the day—Tales of the Manuvu makes a strong comeback... Although dance is about change and movement, ARDP puts value and currency in proven works. It continues to foster a collaborative environment for Filipino artists—all in a mission to keep dance as an art form that provokes, excites, and engages the national spirit and consciousness.”

The 2026 Restaging
The 2026 production is restaged by ARDP Ballet Master Lester Reguindin. This iteration features new set and costume designs by award-winning director and designer Loy Arcenas, and lighting design by Barbara Tan-Tiongco.

A Stellar Cast of Voices and Movement
The production features a powerhouse ensemble of singers and dancers, continuing the tradition of featuring live vocalists and a rock band alongside technical brilliance. With a rotating cast, the production offers a unique experience at every performance.

 

 

Audiences are invited to catch the different artistic interpretations of both the singers and dancers.

The Singers:

• Manama / First Man: Portrayed by Gawad Buhay awardee Joshua Cadeliña, alternating with versatile theater artist Adonis Villanueva.
• Ogassi: Brought to life by international a cappella sensation Almond Bolante, sharing the role with distinguished baritone Greg De Leon.
• First Woman: Featuring rising stars Christy Lagapa, alternating with Toni Carm Santos.

The Dancers:

• Manama: John Ababon, alternating with Renzen Arboleda.
• Ogassi: Earl John Arisola, sharing the role with seasoned choreographer and dance artist Erl Sorilla.
• First Man: Renzen Arboleda and James Galarpe.
• First Woman: Krislynne Buri and Francine Beltran

Supporting Artists and the Community

All proceeds from ticket sales will cover production expenses and provide essential financial support to ARDP dancers, musicians, and the artists involved in bringing this epic production to life. By purchasing tickets, patrons directly contribute to sustaining the legacy of Filipino dance and supporting the livelihoods of dedicated performing artists.

Performance, Cast Schedule & Ticketing

To ensure the arts remain accessible, the UP Diliman leg of the tour offers free admission on a first-come, first-served basis.

Admission is FREE with a required pre-registration via Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/tales-of-the-manuvu-tickets-1982415778960

Following its UP performances—made possible by a creative grant from UP President Angelo Jimenez— the production moves to the Proscenium Theater in Makati for a strictly limited run on March 28–29.

A Fundraising Gala will be held on March 28 (7:30 PM) in which your Gala ticket is a direct investment in the future of ARDP, providing vital support for our dancers and the preservation of the works of National Artists like Alice Reyes and Agnes Locsin.

• Orchestra Center: 5,000
• Orchestra Side: 4,000
• Dress Circle: 2,500

For Fundraising Gala Tickets, contact Joey Trinidad: ticketingofficer@ardp.ph | +63 945 664 1010.

March 29 – Regular Performances

● Matinee (2:00 PM):

• Orchestra Center (2,500)
• Orchestra Side (1,800)
• Dress Circle (1,800)

● Evening (6:00 PM):

• Orchestra Center (3,000)
• Orchestra Side (2,000)
• Dress Circle (2,000)

Early Bird Offer: 10% OFF for a limited time.
Discounts: PWD (20%), Senior Citizen (20%), and Student (50%) discounts apply.

Join the Priority List today to secure early access and the best available seats. Click here to reserve https://bit.ly/4rJIznA

Read More

A Closer Look at The Manila Hotel Guest Experience

The Manila Hotel, the Grand Dame of the Philippines, continues to set the standard for luxury by blending its storied past with thoughtful, modern comforts—offering guests an experience that is memorable, welcoming, and distinctly special.

A New Layer of Elegance

In its commitment to preserving timeless elegance, The Manila Hotel has unveiled new carpeting throughout the Main Building. The refreshed look complements the hotel’s classic aesthetic while creating plush, revitalized ambiance. The result is a softer, more inviting atmosphere, one that makes every walk through the halls and into the guest rooms feel relaxed and unhurried.

A Stay That Comes Fully Stocked

Luxury at The Manila Hotel is felt in the little details. Guests booking the best available rate (BAR) directly in the website or via hotel reservations officers will find a fully stocked complimentary mini bar in their room, replenished daily. This simple yet indulgent touch turns every stay into a personal retreat, setting the tone for a visit that feels like home.

Special Discount for In-House Guests

True to its legacy of hospitality, all checked-in guests enjoy 20% off across most of the hotel’s celebrated dining outlets and The Manila Hotel Spa. From the refined elegance of the Champagne Room and the traditional Chinese flavors of Red Jade, to the renowned buffet at Café Ilang-Ilang, as well as relaxed moments at the Lobby Lounge, Tap Room, and Pool Bar, guests can savor every dining experience at added value. The same discount extends to the Spa, where guests can escape the city’s hustle and unwind in tranquility.

Stress-Free Daily Transfers

Understanding that Metro Manila’s vibrancy also lies beyond its grand doors, the hotel offers complimentary daily scheduled transfers to SM Mall of Asia and Robinson’s Place Manila, providing access for those seeking retail, entertainment, or a leisurely day out.

Culinary Fun for Junior Guests

For families, the hotel continues to be a haven for shared experiences. Every Sunday, Café Ilang-Ilang comes alive as a playful kitchen for little chefs. Children aged 5 to 12 can join the complimentary Kiddie Culinary classes, where they can try their hand at pizza making or cupcake decorating guided by the hotel’s skilled chefs. This delightful experience is available to junior guests who avail the Sunday lunch buffet at Café Ilang-Ilang, ensuring fun for the kids while parents savor the feast.

“At The Manila Hotel, we aim to provide more than just a room, we offer a legacy of service and a gateway to the best of Filipino hospitality. We invite our guests to fully immerse themselves in the luxury, comfort, and thoughtful touches that make their stay with us unforgettable,” shares Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing of The Manila Hotel.

For inquiries and reservations, please call +632 8527 0011 or +632 85301 5500, email info@themanilahotel.com, or visit www.manila-hotel.com.ph.

Read More

FEU Theater Guild presents "BANGAW" beginning March 5

An adventurous reimagination of William Golding’s Lord of the Flies set amidst the isolation of an island of freedom and fear.

In its 92nd season, the Far Eastern University Theater Guild (FTG) presents BANGAW, a Filipino play with music adapted from William Golding’s classic story, Lord of the Flies. Written by Gold Villar-Lim, with music by Vince Lim, and directed by PETA Senior Artist-Teacher and FTG Artistic Director Dudz Teraña, the production explores the meaning of survival through a distinctly Filipino lens.

Bangaw is a bold theatrical experience that follows a group of students forced into isolation as they navigate authority and belonging within a fragile, self-made community. Rooted in contemporary cultural and political realities, the production interrogates leadership and identity in a society shaped by the consequences of the present. Through an ensemble-driven performance, the play becomes a reflection on what it means to inherit a fractured world—and the responsibility that comes with shaping what follows.

Layered with original music by Gold Villar-Lim, with two additional songs by Dudz Teraña, Bangaw blends symbolic movement and raw emotional expression with rhythmic, realistic storytelling. Traditional and modern Filipino soundscapes pulse throughout the production, serving as both atmosphere and metaphor for a nation caught between collapse and renewal. Beyond performance, the work confronts pressing societal concerns—division, abuse of power, systemic failure, moral decay, and patriarchy—while foregrounding enduring Filipino values such as bayanihan, resilience, and strategic intelligence, resulting in a multi-layered theatrical experience that challenges perspectives, provokes dialogue, and invites audiences to reflect on the kind of future being shaped today.

What’s Bugging Us?
Set on a remote island in Visayas, Bangaw follows a group of high school students from different schools who end up stranded after a plane crash. With no adults, no government, and no rules, their attempt to reconstruct order quickly unravels. What begins as a mission of survival is disrupted by a growing fascination with hunting and the belief that a monster lurks in the forest. The group fractures further after a boar is killed and its head transformed into an idol—the Lord of the Flies. A hallucination is mistaken as proof of the monster’s existence, sparking a killing frenzy that claims two lives and brings their fragile civilization to brutal collapse.

At the center of Bangaw is Raf (Sam Siasoyco IAS ‘29), whose attempt to uphold order becomes a fragile anchor amid growing unrest. Opposing him is Jack (Aldin Covarrubias ITHM ‘28, Dave Bambang IARFA ‘29), whose descent into dominance and violence drives the group apart.

Caught between reason and survival are the twins Sam (Dianne Andallo ITHM ‘26, Trisha Nilayan IAS ‘29) and Erich (Maria Ysabel delos Reyes IAS ‘27, Althea Sibulo FIT ‘27), while Simone (Heleina Li IAS ‘26, Julia Nicole Ramas FIT ‘26) emerges as a quiet moral compass. Adding complexity is Tabeks (Jharelle Villalobos IAS ‘27, Edrud Madalan FIT ‘27), who challenges rigid hierarchies, while the younger children—Tiny (Marjorie Uson IAS ‘27, Francine Galvez IAS ‘28), Matty (Melenne Hokase IAS ‘28, Margarita Barrameda IAS ‘26), and Caleb (Julian Rafael Anabo IAS ‘27, Lorenze Moral IAS ‘26)—align with Raf, embodying innocence and vulnerability amid chaos.

Supporting Jack are Apple (Janae Dionisio IAS ‘28, Ayessa Raymundo IAS ‘28), Pat (Bjorn Pestaño IAS ‘26, Charlene Libo-on IAS ‘28), Phil (Zoe Sisam IAS ‘29, Shekinah Resurreccion FIT ‘27), Robert (Justin Abalos IAS ‘28, Renz Dotillos IAS ‘26), Morris (Kevin Ricaforte IAS ‘28, Miguel Galpo IAS ‘28), and Roger (Shawn Tarala IAS ‘27, Kirstan Orbegoso IAS ‘27), forming a choir-like faction that amplifies tension.

 
The ensemble is rounded out by Marc Ducut IAS ‘27, Kristian Samson IAS ‘26, Johann Umali IAS ‘29, John Andrei Cruz IAS ‘29, and Cris Jay Cabides IAS ‘29. Hovering over the narrative is the haunting Panginoong Bangaw, while the Piloto will be alternately portrayed by Aldin Covarrubias and Dave Bambang. Parachutists serve as distant echoes of the adult world left behind.

Bangaw promises a gripping theatrical experience that merges powerful storytelling, music, and movement to challenge perspectives, provoke dialogue, and immerse audiences in a uniquely Filipino exploration of survival, morality, and the consequences of human choices.

BANGAW will run at the FEU Center for the Arts Studio on the following dates:
March: 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, 28
April: 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25

The house will open at 6 PM and the show will start at 6:30 PM.

Ticket Prices:
₱100 – Students from FEU (all branches)
₱200 – Students from outside FEU Manila
₱500 – Regular Guests
₱700 – VIP

Connect via: Facebook: Far Eastern University Theater Guild
Instagram & TikTok: @feutheaterguildofficial
Twitter/X: @ftg1934

Read More

Tickets for PETA’s Ang Babae sa Septic Tank 4 Goes Live Starting Feb 27

Metrobank Credit Cardholders get first access to tickets for PETA’s most anticipated show of 2026

Ticket selling officially begins on February 27 for the Philippine Educational Theater Association’s (PETA) biggest theatrical event of 2026, Ang Babae Sa Septic Tank 4: Oh Sh*t! It’s Live Sa Cheter! —with Metrobank credit cardholders enjoying exclusive first access to the highly anticipated production.

Excitement is already building as fans eagerly await their chance to see Ang Babae Sa Septic Tank come alive on stage. After two blockbuster films and a hit series, the beloved satire makes its long-awaited return—this time with sharper humor, bolder commentary, and all the chaos that can only happen in a live theater setting.

Widely regarded as one of the most iconic performers of her generation, Eugene Domingo reprises her role, bringing her sharp comedic brilliance and fearless energy back to live theater. Her comeback has been eagerly awaited by fans and theater lovers alike, making this production not just a new chapter in the franchise but a landmark event celebrating her enduring impact on Filipino storytelling.

As the Official Bank Partner of PETA’s 58th Theater Season, Metrobank marks its third year of partnership by continuing to champion original Filipino works that push creative boundaries, spark national conversations, and support local artists and homegrown storytelling.

 

Metrobank credit cardholders can enjoy exclusive presale access from February 27 at 10:00 AM to March 3 at 11:59 PM via TicketWorld.

A Waitlist Sale follows from March 4 at 10:00 AM to March 5 at 11:59 PM, open to patrons who signed up last December 2025, while the General Public Sale begins on March 6 at 10:00 AM.

 

Written by Chris Martinez and to be directed by Maribel Legarda, Ang Babae Sa Septic Tank 4: Oh Sh*t! It’s Live Sa Cheter! will run for 50 shows from June 19 to August 16, 2026, at the PETA Theater Center.

Ticket prices:

• P3,500 (VIP)
• P2,800 (Orchestra and Balcony Center)
• P2,500 (Orchestra Side)
• P1,800 (Balcony Side).

Audiences are encouraged to create their TicketWorld accounts in advance, as tickets are expected to sell out fast.

For more updates, follow @petatheater on social media.

Read More

The Worth-It Way to Celebrate Chinese New Year in Hong Kong and Macau

Sneaker Street

When you think of traveling to Hong Kong, it’s easy to see why Macau is often visited too—they’re just so close! With its endless shopping spots, iconic attractions, and mouthwatering delicacies, these places have become popular holiday destinations for many Filipinos - especially during Chinese New Year.

Trips to these cities can feel pricey, especially if you’re traveling with family. But it doesn’t always have to be that way! There are plenty of cool spots and tasty eats in both cities where you can score great value without sacrificing the experience.

With your GCash Visa Card and e-wallet, every swipe, scan, or tap helps your money go further—thanks to lower forex rates, more deals, easy payments, real-time spend tracking, and no more counting change.

And if you want great value, you can get that for sure when you use the ultimate shopping hack from GCash. All you need is your GCash Visa Card and e-wallet so you can Swipe-Scan-Tap. When you do, you can stretch every peso, thanks to lower forex rates, more deals, easy payments, real-time spend tracking, and no more counting change.

If you’re heading to Hong Kong and Macau for the Lunar New Year, check out these stops that are perfect for families and guaranteed to give a worth it experience.

Macau Tower

Shop sulit and smart hauls at wholesale stores and markets
Hong Kong is admittedly a shopping haven - but if you want to shop smart, you need to know where to go. Lung Fung Mall offers beauty, skincare, and health products at friendlier prices than malls. You can find fragrances, skincare, and other beauty products at reduced prices at their many locations across Hong Kong.

Meanwhile, if you’re finally ready to buy that brand new item you’ve been saving up for, like new running shoes, a bag, or workout gear, Citygate Outlets is your best option. They carry many brands, such as Lululemon, Evisu, Marimekko, and many more.

For seasoned travellers who frequent Hong Kong, going to Mong Kok to buy clothes, snacks, and a wide variety of anik-anik is also a no-brainer. If you’ve ever heard of Sneaker Street and Ladies Market, you can find things for you and for your pasalubong back home. The best part is that you can still haggle the prices in certain stores, making shopping in the area even more budget-friendly—so get your tawad skills ready!

And when carrying multiple bags after your pasalubong spree becomes a hassle, you can tap your way to easy, convenient payments with GCash Tap to Pay. Available for all NFC-enabled Android smartphones, it lets you pay with just one tap—making it much easier to get around the often-crowded streets.

Lung Fung Mall

Discover hidden gems and family fun in Macau
Macau isn’t just about its famous landmarks and beautiful architecture – though it is worth going just to see them for yourself. But there are also many fun experiences that the family can enjoy, and it’s all just a convenient ferry ticket away! These boat trips take about an hour from the Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Terminal, and you can secure your tickets by paying with GCash Scan to Pay for a hassle-free experience. Simply generate your QR code and select Pay Abroad with GCash, and look for merchants with a QR code bearing the A+ logo to scan. If you’re looking for local delicacies, head over to Taipa Village, where you can stock up on crowd favorites like beef jerky and almond cookies. These treats are delicious, affordable, and loved by locals!

You can also book tickets to team Lab SuperNature Macau, an incredible interactive art space with 8-meter-tall, colorful exhibitions that kids and adults will enjoy.

Team Lab Macau

Here’s a secret hack when paying with GCash abroad: some merchants also offer special promos and discounts up to PHP 1,500 off, just tap Travel and go into Travel Treats to browse what’s available.

Eat without the splurge at Yung’s Tangerine Peel Roast Goose and Cheung Hing Kee
One of the best parts of traveling to Hong Kong and Macao is the food. You can’t leave Hong Kong without trying their roast goose, and a great spot to try is Yung's Tangerine Peel Roast Goose. Yung’s is rich and flavorful, and best of all, budget friendly.

Yung's Tangerine Peel Roast Goose

When you hear that a restaurant has been recognized by Michelin, would you believe that you don’t have to pay a fortune for high-quality food? Because that’s what you can expect from MICHELIN Bib Gourmand Cheung Hing Kee Shanghai Pan-fried Buns at Lock Road. Other than their pan-fried buns, their scallion noodles and wontons are a must-try—perfect bites to snack on when you want to refuel while exploring the city.

 

Scan, Swipe, and Tap for a sulit and enjoyable trip
Traveling on a budget doesn’t have to mean limiting yourself. When you pay with GCash abroad, you get real-time control over your spending, low forex rates updated instantly in-app, and fast, convenient transactions throughout your trip — all while enjoying to the fullest.

Card, Tap to Pay, Scan to Pay

Remember to scan, swipe, and tap for an experience you’ll definitely say is worth it! Download the GCash app today to get started.

Read More

Smart, Scalable, and Connected: Daikin’s Blueprint for Modern Buildings

The seminar highlighted VRV systems, MARUTTO, and the future of integrated HVAC.

Daikin Airconditioning Philippines, Inc. brought the spotlight to the future of township cooling and connected building design during the Daikin Solutions Seminar 2026, held last January 23 at Solaire North in Quezon City. Designed for developers, consultants, and industry partners, the seminar focused on how smart, integrated HVAC systems can support the growing complexity of mixed-use developments while delivering long-term energy efficiency, centralized control, and operational reliability.

With over 100 years of global expertise, Daikin continues to host solutions-driven seminars to share technical knowledge, promote sustainable cooling practices, and demonstrate the value of end-to-end HVAC systems that respond to real-world development needs. This year’s seminar highlighted two key themes shaping today’s built environment: Smart Township Cooling Solutions for Modern Mixed-Use Developments and Connected Comfort through Limitless Accessibility in Modern Building Design.

Daikin Philippines President, Mr. Hirohide Kinugawa

Daikin Philippines President Mr. Hirohide Kinugawa emphasized that HVAC has evolved beyond a standalone system to become a strategic driver of overall building performance. He explained, “Air conditioning is no longer just an equipment; it is a foundation that protects building quality and future value,” highlighting how energy efficiency, comfort, and sustainability must work together to safeguard the long-term value of modern developments. Kinugawa added that today’s systems play a far greater role than providing comfort alone. “In large, mixed-use developments, HVAC must support energy efficiency, operational stability, and long-term building value. At Daikin, we design systems that help townships perform efficiently today while remaining adaptable for the future. Together, let’s create comfortable, energy-saving spaces across the Philippines.”

Smart Township Cooling for Mixed-Use Developments
As townships continue to expand beyond Metro Manila, cooling requirements have become more complex, spanning residential, office, hotel, and retail environments within a single development. According to Mr. Wesley Andre Chu, Deputy Division Manager for Project Sales, Daikin sees townships as integrated ecosystems that require cohesive HVAC strategies rather than isolated systems. “Townships bring together multiple asset types with different usage patterns,” Chu shared. “Our goal is to provide developers and consultants with practical, integrated solutions that deliver efficiency, comfort, and long-term value across the entire development.”

Daikin PH Deputy Division Manager - Project Sales, Mr. Wesley Andre Chu

Daikin’s approach to township cooling centers on scalable VRV (Variable Refrigerant Volume) systems, chillers for large commercial spaces, and intelligent ventilation solutions that allow different building types to operate efficiently under one coordinated system. By designing HVAC from the master-planning stage, developers gain better energy performance, simplified operations, and future-ready infrastructure.

Connected Comfort and Limitless Accessibility

Beyond cooling capacity, connectivity has become a defining requirement of modern building design. Daikin emphasized that connected HVAC systems allow building owners and operators to monitor, manage, and optimize performance across multiple buildings in real time. This vision was highlighted by Mr. Andrew Hobbs, Head of Business Development – Solutions at Daikin Holdings Singapore, who presented case studies on hybrid and mixed-use developments across the region. He explained how centralized systems and predictive analytics enable operators to balance comfort and efficiency while reducing operational risks. “In large, mixed-use developments, visibility and control are critical,” Hobbs said. “Connected HVAC systems allow operators to anticipate issues, manage energy use more effectively, and maintain consistent comfort across different building types.”

Daikin Holdings Singapore Head of Business Development Solutions, Mr. Andrew Hobbs

MARUTTO: Preventive Maintenance at Scale

A central focus of the event was MARUTTO, Daikin’s cloud-based HVAC control and monitoring platform, positioned as a best solution for preventive maintenance in large-scale developments. MARUTTO provides a comprehensive, centralized building solution that enables monitoring and control across extensive portfolios while improving equipment reliability and extending lifecycle performance. The platform integrates advanced energy optimization and performance management with simplified dashboards tailored to different user types, enhancing engagement and usability for end users. Workflow management for maintenance, service, and lifecycle activities, combined with Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning capabilities, allows building operators to predict energy demand, detect inefficiencies early, and shift from reactive maintenance to proactive system management.

By identifying potential issues before they escalate, MARUTTO helps reduce downtime, lower operating costs, and extend equipment lifespan. For township-scale developments, this level of preventive maintenance supports stable operations, preserves long-term asset value, and ensures consistent comfort for all occupants.

Building Long-Term Value Through Integrated Solutions
The event also highlighted the need for stronger collaboration as developments become larger and more complex. Emphasizing the role of integrated systems in shaping modern townships, Mr. Tomohiro Kure, Vice President of Daikin Philippines, shared a vision of working closely with partners to deliver lasting value. “Together, we can raise the value of homes, offices, retail, and hotels across entire townships as we build better spaces and stronger communities,” he said.

Daikin Philippines Vice President, Mr. Tomohiro Kure

Sharing Expertise for Future-Ready Developments
Through the Daikin Solutions Seminar 2026, the company strengthened its commitment to sharing expertise, supporting industry partners, and advancing smart, sustainable cooling solutions tailored for modern Philippine developments. By combining township-scale planning, connected HVAC systems, and preventive maintenance platforms like MARUTTO, Daikin continues to help developers and consultants design environments that are efficient, resilient, and built for the long term.

For product inquiries, service assistance, or more information, you may contact the Daikin Cool Line at #324546 or visit the official Daikin Philippines website at www.daikin.com.ph. Updates are also available on its official social media channels: Facebook, Instagram , X, formerly Twitter, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Read More