EVENTS

Moviegoers and animation fans around the world are heading to theaters—and straight to Google Search—as DreamWorks Animation’s newest feature Forgotten Island, starring world-class Filipinos Liza Soberano and H.E.R., tops Philippine search trends.

​Search data on Google Trends over the past week shows spikes in interest in the entire country, with the “Forgotten Island” search term scoring a perfect 100 once on September 23 and past 90 on more than one point. This means that the term completely dominated all other search keywords by volume, proving that the Filipino culture-inspired blockbuster is indeed a hit phenomenon at home.

And as viewers fall in love with the film's lush visuals and story, they are also turning to Google to discover the real-world Philippine mythology that inspired it.

​From winged nocturnal creatures to giants lurking in ancient trees, Forgotten Island weaves iconic elements of Filipino folklore into its narrative. The surge in global search interest shows how cinematic storytelling can spark curiosity about local heritage and traditions.

​You can start looking up some of the lore, too. Whether you’re a lifelong lore enthusiast or a movie fan
curious about what inspired the story, here are four simple ways to use Google Search to explore
authentic Pinoy mythology:

● ​Search for creature origins using exact names: Curious about the creatures featured on screen? Type specific names like Manananggal, Tiyanak, Kapre, or Batibat alongside keywords like Filipino mythology or regional folklore to find reliable articles, myth breakdowns, and cultural studies.

● ​Use quotation marks for targeted search terms: If you want precise information on a specific myth or creature, enclose your search term in quotation marks—for example, mythological origins of Kapre& Batibat folklore in Ilocano culture. This tells Google to return results containing those exact phrases.

● ​Explore local customs and cultural concepts: Forgotten Island showcases more than just mythical beasts—it highlights rich traditions and local values. Search terms like Filipino spirit offerings, Philippine animism traditions, or traditional gestures featured in the movie to understand the deep cultural roots behind each scene.

● ​Dive into visual and video resources: Folklore lives in art and storytelling. Switch to Google Images or search YouTube within Google to watch documentaries, listen to local storytellers, and see traditional illustrations of Philippine mythical lore by local Filipino artists.

As Forgotten Island continues to captivate audiences from the Philippines to the rest of the world, Google Search makes it easy for moviegoers everywhere to turn movie-night wonder into meaningful learning.

Moviegoers and animation fans around the world are heading to theaters—and straight to Google Search—as DreamWorks Animation’s newest feature Forgotten Island, starring world-class Filipinos Liza Soberano and H.E.R., tops Philippine search trends.

​Search data on Google Trends over the past week shows spikes in interest in the entire country, with the “Forgotten Island” search term scoring a perfect 100 once on September 23 and past 90 on more than one point. This means that the term completely dominated all other search keywords by volume, proving that the Filipino culture-inspired blockbuster is indeed a hit phenomenon at home.

And as viewers fall in love with the film's lush visuals and story, they are also turning to Google to discover the real-world Philippine mythology that inspired it.

​From winged nocturnal creatures to giants lurking in ancient trees, Forgotten Island weaves iconic elements of Filipino folklore into its narrative. The surge in global search interest shows how cinematic storytelling can spark curiosity about local heritage and traditions.

​You can start looking up some of the lore, too. Whether you’re a lifelong lore enthusiast or a movie fan
curious about what inspired the story, here are four simple ways to use Google Search to explore
authentic Pinoy mythology:

● ​Search for creature origins using exact names: Curious about the creatures featured on screen? Type specific names like Manananggal, Tiyanak, Kapre, or Batibat alongside keywords like Filipino mythology or regional folklore to find reliable articles, myth breakdowns, and cultural studies.

● ​Use quotation marks for targeted search terms: If you want precise information on a specific myth or creature, enclose your search term in quotation marks—for example, mythological origins of Kapre& Batibat folklore in Ilocano culture. This tells Google to return results containing those exact phrases.

● ​Explore local customs and cultural concepts: Forgotten Island showcases more than just mythical beasts—it highlights rich traditions and local values. Search terms like Filipino spirit offerings, Philippine animism traditions, or traditional gestures featured in the movie to understand the deep cultural roots behind each scene.

● ​Dive into visual and video resources: Folklore lives in art and storytelling. Switch to Google Images or search YouTube within Google to watch documentaries, listen to local storytellers, and see traditional illustrations of Philippine mythical lore by local Filipino artists.

As Forgotten Island continues to captivate audiences from the Philippines to the rest of the world, Google Search makes it easy for moviegoers everywhere to turn movie-night wonder into meaningful learning.

For most Filipinos, a trip to the mall is never just about running errands. It’s a weekend ritual, a form of self-care, and a social tradition. In recent years, local retail culture has warmly embraced the concept of the “budol” that satisfying feeling of bringing home an unexpected beauty staple, a closet refresh, or a fun home upgrade.

This October, SMAC is bringing its biggest celebration of deals, rewards, and member experience yet with SMACtober Surprise, a first-of-its-kind month-long experience for SMAC members.

Bringing together games, exclusive vouchers, amazing deals, and more across digital, in-store,
and social platforms, it gives you more ways to shop, save, and get rewarded throughout the
month.

“SMACtober Surprise is a milestone for SMAC as we bring together exciting ways for our members to play, save, win, and be rewarded throughout the month. While the in-store experience remains at the heart of SMAC, we’re evolving that experience through the SMAC&SHOP app, creating more innovative, interactive, and relevant ways for members to engage with the brand. From games and digital experiences to limited-time offers and surprises, SMACtober Surprise brings a new sense of excitement to the everyday shopping experience.” says John Patrick Cua, Chief Operating Officer.

“As we continue to evolve, we also want to make SMAC more relevant to the next generation of shoppers while staying meaningful to the members who have been with us through the years. It’s about making the value of being a SMAC member even more rewarding—bringing together the familiarity of the in-store experience with the convenience and new possibilities of digital.” he added.

Making the Everyday Shopping Experience Better Rather than just a typical one-off sale, October brings a continuous lineup of member-exclusive perks, gamified app features, and savings that seamlessly elevate members’ shopping routine.
SMACtober integrates rewarding moments directly into how you shop, play, and share.

1. Making every moment more rewarding
Whether you’re waiting in line, getting your nails done, or simply having a few minutes to spare, the SMAC&SHOP app gives you more ways to play, win, and get rewarded anytime, anywhere.

Check your app daily for Super Vouchers of up to 60% off (new vouchers drop every Thursday!) or try your luck with MAX Voucher Claw and win up to 20% off vouchers. You can also Shake (your phone) & Win up to 10,000 SMAC points as good as cash every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Whether you have a few minutes to play or on the hunt for your next exclusive treat, make every tap count!

2. Discovering the hottest picks in-store
Some of the best finds are the ones you discover while you’re already at the mall. Throughout October, you can look out for Amazing Deals — featuring up to 50% OFF deals, Buy-One-Get-One sets, curated bundles, and member-exclusive pricing across fashion, home, groceries, and lifestyle finds at over 4,000 partner stores nationwide. You can browse through the deals here: https://bit.ly/SMACtober_AmazingDeals

3. Celebrating Hauls and earning points Of course, no good find stays a secret for long. We don’t gatekeep here!
Share your favorite SMACtober Surprise experience such as your best budol finds, or maybe you and your friends enjoying the games can get a chance to win 500 SMAC points that are as good as cash. Just tag @smacph, use the hashtags #SMACtober and #SMACBudol, and complete the entry form here: https://survey.zohopublic.com/zs/QjC2aq

Because the best budol comes with rewards. Discover more surprises, deals, and rewards waiting for you this SMACtober.
Upgrading your everyday shopping routine has never been easier. SMAC is the Philippines& leading retail loyalty program, accepted across more than 4,000 partner stores nationwide.

Download the SMAC&SHOP app on Google Play Store or Apple’s App Store to explore
SMACtober Surprise offers and discover continuous ways to play, save, and win throughout
October.

Stay updated on the latest perks and weekly surprises by following SMAC on social media.

West Zone concessionaire Maynilad Water Services, Inc. (Maynilad) is nearing completion of primary distribution pipelines with a combined length of 9.12 kilometers that will enable the company to distribute more water produced in the southern portion of its concession area to customers in Muntinlupa and Las Piñas.

The approximately ₱5.8-billion project will connect the Poblacion Water Treatment Plant in Muntinlupa more extensively to Maynilad’s distribution network, increasing the company’s capacity to deliver water from its southern facilities to areas where additional supply is needed.

Once fully commissioned and integrated into the network, the new pipelines will improve the distribution of water across the southern part of the West Zone, support better pressure management, and enhance supply reliability by giving Maynilad greater flexibility to serve different areas from available sources when needed.

The project is a key component of Maynilad’s preparations for the potential effects of El Niño. According to PAGASA, El Niño conditions are present in the tropical Pacific and are expected to strengthen in the coming months, increasing the likelihood of below-normal rainfall, dry spells, and drought in parts of the country.

“Investments such as this are part of our continuing effort to build a more resilient water system for the West Zone. As climate conditions become more challenging, we need infrastructure that allows us to maximize available supply, manage constraints more effectively, and better support our customers during periods of tighter raw water availability,” said Maynilad Chief Operating Officer Christopher Jaime T. Lichauco.

The primary distribution pipelines complement Maynilad’s broader water-security program, which includes tapping supplemental water sources such as Laguna Lake, developing modular treatment plants and potable water reuse facilities, expanding storage capacity, reducing water losses, and improving network and pressure management.

Together, these initiatives are intended to reduce Maynilad’s reliance on a single water source, strengthen system flexibility, and support service reliability during prolonged dry conditions.

Maynilad operates the largest water concession by population served within a single concession area in the Philippines. It is a concessionaire of the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System for the West Zone of the Greater Manila Area, which is composed of the cities of Manila, Quezon City, and Makati, certain portions; Caloocan, Pasay, Parañaque, Las Piñas, Muntinlupa, Valenzuela, Navotas, and Malabon, all in Metro Manila; and the cities of Cavite, Bacoor, and Imus, and the municipalities of Kawit, Noveleta, and Rosario, all in Cavite Province.

In celebration of Ortigas Land’s 95th anniversary, Ortigas Malls invites shoppers to be part of the milestone with 95 Deals, a limited-time campaign featuring exciting offers from participating dining, retail, wellness, and lifestyle brands in GH Mall and Estancia. Running until August 31, shoppers can enjoy exclusive deals from their favorite stores.

From dining and fashion to gadgets and wellness, the 95 Deals campaign is a celebration of the
communities that have grown alongside Ortigas Land over the past 95 years—thanking shoppers with exclusive offers while looking forward to many more years of memorable experiences. GH Mall, located at the iconic Greenhills Shopping Center, is offering deals on food and drinks, clothes and accessories, gadgets, and more. Spanish restaurant Alba is offering P95 off on lunch or dinner buffet with every full paying adult, while Cupi’s Wildberry Drink is at a special price of P95. Shop for new kicks and shirts at Vans, which is offering 20% off on select items. Innovator is also offering 30% off if buyers get three products from the store. For new tech, check out The Playbook Store because it’s offering P9,500 off on select gadgets. Check out all the deals at GH Mall here.

Likewise, Estancia also has deals on various experiences, such as self-care dates and treats for furbabies. When shoppers avail of 9 sessions at MD Aesthetique, they get 5 free Signature Pumpkin Facials for the ultimate pamper session. Pets can get their well-deserved R&R too as Barkhaus is slashing off P95 for premium grooming and hotel booking for walk-ins. For the homebodies, Styles Asia Home is offering only P95 each on small glass home decor pieces until supplies last. Check out all the deals at Estancia Mall here.

There’s something for everyone with Ortigas Malls’ 95 Deals at GH Mall and Estancia. Don’t miss out on this special anniversary promo and enjoy each experience with loved ones until August 31, 2026.

For more information and updates on Ortigas Malls, visit ortigas.com.ph, download the Ortigas Malls app, and follow GH Mall on Facebook and Instagram, and Estancia on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on the latest news and events.

In a market shaped by growing consumer demand and evolving logistics requirements, Rhenus is providing warehousing services to leading technology companies such as Bosch Philippines. Rhenus provides sustainable warehousing services, including storage, handling, fulfillment and value-added services that support local operations. The service for customers also includes the use of a fully electric Material Handling Equipment (MHE) fleet, as well as established warehouse processes designed to minimize waste.

The engagement reflects the continued commitment which Rhenus has to supporting customers in the Philippines through modern warehousing capabilities and reliable logistics operations. Marcus Fornell, Regional Head of Rhenus Warehousing Solutions in APAC, said, “Strategic collaborations are a key part of our regional strategy to actively expand our footprint and product portfolio. With logistics needs in the Philippines continuing to evolve, we look forward to pursuing active growth and setting new standards for logistics solutions in the markets that we are in.” As part of its continued investment in the country, Rhenus recently opened a new warehouse facility in Parañaque and established a new head office in Pasay.

“Rhenus is committed to continually investing in the Philippines as we strengthen our local logistics capabilities. This marks another step in supporting the market’s evolving needs through reliable operations, modern facilities, and solutions tailored to customers in the country,” added Deepak Sharma, Managing Director of Rhenus Warehousing Solutions Philippines.

Rhenus is recognized by the Bosch Group as a “Preferred Supplier” for overland services. Bosch confers this status on companies and service providers that have consistently demonstrated outstanding performance over an extended period within their respective fields.

Ricardo Almeida, Global Strategic Account Manager at Rhenus said, “Our longstanding business relationship with Bosch reflects our shared focus on operational excellence and reliable logistics support. As supply chains continue to evolve globally, and as markets such as the Philippines become increasingly important in regional growth, we remain focused on delivering reliable and efficient logistics solutions tailored to local business needs.”

The 9th Ortigas Art Festival transforms GH Mall into a free multidisciplinary festival of creativity. From July 17 to 30, 2026, visitors can explore various contemporary art galleries in the middle of the mall, catch independent film screenings, witness live performances, and   learn new skills through interactive workshops.

This year’s theme, “Elevate,” reflects how the Ortigas Art Festival has steadily grown from an exhibition of paintings into one of Metro Manila’s most accessible and award-winning celebrations of Filipino creativity. What began as a vision of “Art For All,” which has been the festival’s long-running advocacy, it is elevating creativity through a multi-sensory celebration of expression. Think compelling visual arts, immersive installations, and the moving expressions of film and live performances. 

Among this year’s highlights are exhibitions dedicated to two of the country’s most influential cultural figures. National Artist for Literature Virgilio Almario is featured through a collaboration with the University of the Philippines (UP) Press, while the legacy of National Artist for Theater Design Salvador Bernal comes alive in an exhibition mounted in partnership with the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP).

“The theme ‘Elevate’ is both a reflection and a call to action,” says Renato “Ato” Habulan, Lead Curator of Ortigas Art Festival. “It honors how far the festival has come over nine years, while challenging artists and audiences alike to rise higher, think deeper, and experience art in new and unexpected ways right here in their neighborhood mall.” Beyond the canvas, creativity arrives in motion. Live performances by the prestigious Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra Quartet, alongside dynamic dance showcases provided the vibrant ambiance and entertainment during the opening ceremony.

Celebrating Filipino cultural icons and emerging artists

Ortigas Art Festival also shines a spotlight on environmental sculptor and the “Father of Philippine Installation Art” Junyee as this year’s featured artist. Known for transforming natural materials into monumental installations that blur the line between art and landscape, Junyee’s work represents the kind of artistic innovation that the festival seeks to celebrate.

The gallery experience extends further through participating spaces and artist collectives including Agos Studio’s exhibition celebrating the 50th anniversary of Kaisahan, Eskinita Art Gallery, Linangan Art Residency, Thombayan Art Space, Art Circle Gallery, Historia Art Gallery, Nami Art Gallery, the Collective Artists of Angono, which is considered the Art Capital of the Philippines, the Mindoro Artists Group, Pasig Art Club, the Ortigas Foundation, and several artist-run initiatives. A photograph exhibit by Born in Film showcases nostalgic and modern shots from around the Philippines.

A multidisciplinary cinematic and performance lineup

Cinema becomes an equally important part of the conversation this year. Working with the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) and the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), the festival presents a program ranging from full-length features to acclaimed short films from emerging and established Filipino filmmakers.

These include nightly screenings of Cinemartrys, and Alipato at Muog, alongside selections from CCP’s Lakbay Sine, Gawad Alternatibo, and Cinemalaya programs. The documentary That We May See, directed by Paul Morales, revisits the story of Kaisahan on its 50th anniversary, while works by acclaimed filmmaker Sari Dalena add another layer to the cinematic lineup. Alongside these are the short films like I’m The Best Left Inside My Head by Elian Idoma (2025) and Pastil: Parehas Ra Ta’g Kan-on’g Ginakaon by Andrei Francis “Franky” C. Arrocena (2025), to name a few.

From passion to practice

Visitors who want to make art can find plenty of opportunities to participate during the Ortigas Art Festival.

The free workshops range from acrylic pouring to block printing, textured plaster art, paper cutting, sketching, storytelling, and copyright masterclasses by Born in Film. The program encourages audiences to become creators themselves — even if it’s their first time picking up a brush, carving a print block, or experimenting with new materials.

Ortigas Art Festival also launches the inaugural Ortigas Art Grant, an artist development initiative that supports participating artists beyond the exhibition itself. Shortlisted artists will present new works in 2027, with the selected grantee receiving recognition during the festival’s 10th anniversary celebration and an international exposure opportunity connected to Art Basel Hong Kong 2027. 

That accessibility has always been the festival’s greatest strength. The Ortigas Art Festival continues to position itself as something more democratic: a place where a family wandering through the mall, a student discovering independent Philippine cinema, a budding photographer, or an experienced collector can all find something that speaks to them.

After nine editions, “Art for All” has evolved into something larger than a slogan. It has become an invitation to look longer, stay curious, and discover that art isn’t confined to gallery walls. Sometimes, it’s waiting just around the corner of your neighborhood mall.

To stay informed about upcoming Ortigas Art Festival workshops, features, and announcements, follow the Ortigas Art Festival Facebook page. For more information and updates on Ortigas Malls events, join Ortigas Malls’ Viber Community and follow GH Mall on Facebook.