Wednesday, July 9, 2025

RLC Residences Garners Highest Purchase Intent in the Next 2-3 Years Among Residential Condo Developer Brands


File Photo: 2024 Developer of the Year RLC Residences garners the highest purchase intent in the next few years among other residential condo brands.


Manila, Philippines — RLC Residences has once again solidified its position as one of the leading names in the residential condo market, topping both Top-of-Mind Awareness and Purchase Intent in a recent study conducted by Kantar. The residential division of Robinsons Land outperformed key competitors, particularly in the mid-tier condominium segment, showcasing strong conversion rates and brand affinity.


The study, which surveyed 1,035 property seekers from socio-economic class ABC1 households within NCR+ (NCR, Cavite, Rizal, Pampanga) and Cebu (Metro Cebu, Mandaue, Punta Engaño, and Busay), specifically males and females aged 25 to 60 years old who are purchase decision-makers of residential condominium property to buy, actively looking for a residential condo to buy from a developer, and intend to purchase in the next 2-3 years, revealed RLC Residences as the most recognized and preferred developer among local residential condo purchase intenders. 




Among those who interacted with brokers, RLC Residences generated strong associations with: being highly recommended by friends and family, value for money, friendly and knowledgeable property agents, flexible payment terms, being known for property value increases, providing various payment channel options, providing digital condo services, and being customer-centric (immediately attends to client’s concerns).


“The recognition affirms our commitment to being a brand that listens, understands, and delivers on what today’s Filipino home seekers truly value,” said John Richard Sotelo, Senior Vice President and General Manager of RLC Residences and Chief Marketing Officer of Robinsons Land. “It reflects our mission to make each homebuying journey feel personal and supported—true to our purpose of serving and delighting every homeowner, every step of the way, as we welcome them to their forever home.”


This milestone reflects RLC Residences’ journey since its relaunch in 2021, which unified Robinsons Luxuria, Robinsons Residences, and Robinsons Communities under one brand identity. By 2022, RLC Residences reached 3rd in Top-of-Mind Awareness within its first year of commercial launch, and now in 2025, it proudly holds the No. 1 spot—driven by a clear vision, consistent innovation, and a deep understanding of what Filipino home seekers truly value.


File Photo: RLC Residences Brand Ambassador Heart Evangelista with RLC Residences executives during one of the exclusive events held at The Residences at the Westin Manila.


“This is a big milestone for us. When we relaunched the brand, we had a 10-year goal to reach the top. To get here in just four years is something we’re incredibly proud of,” said Karen Cesario, Marketing Head and Chief Integration Officer of RLC Residences. “It shows that when you stay true to your purpose and focus on what homebuyers really need, people will respond.”


Artist’s Perspective: Le Pont Residences, a premium development by RLC Residences in Bridgetowne Destination Estate


Today, RLC Residences continues to expand its footprint with a portfolio of thoughtfully designed developments that cater to the needs and aspirations of modern homeowners. These include Le Pont Residences, a premium high-rise condo located within Bridgetowne Destination Estate; Mantawi Residences, a landmark development in Mandaue City designed to elevate urban living in Cebu; Sierra Valley Gardens, the smart suburban community in Cainta, Rizal; and Woodsville Crest, a serene, nature-inspired enclave in Parañaque offering a refreshing city-living experience. Also part of the brand’s growing portfolio are SYNC, a dynamic residential hub near C5 ideal for young professionals, and MIRA, a pre-selling development in Quezon City thoughtfully designed for starting and growing families.

File Photo: RLC Residences recently held its 3-day developer curated Expo Hello, Home, Forever at Bridgetowne.


Strengthening its connection with Filipino home seekers, the brand recently hosted RLC Residences Expo 2025: Hello, Home, Forever—a three-day event that brought to life its vision of helping more Filipinos find a home they can grow with. The expo offered an immersive experience where guests explored the brand’s portfolio, connected with experts, and made informed decisions—reinforcing RLC Residences’ role as a trusted partner in every homebuyer’s journey.


Through its Raising Little Champions project, RLC Residences empowers kids to win in sports and in life via IRONKIDS Philippines and its Junior Triathlon Team.


RLC Residences also leads Raising Little Champions, an initiative designed to support young athletes so they can thrive with the support of a caring community. In partnership with IRONKIDS Philippines, the program empowers children to develop values like discipline, confidence, and resilience, while uniting families around shared goals. This family-focused effort underscores the brand’s commitment to building homes and communities that support every stage of a family’s growth.


“We owe this to our clients and partners who continue to trust us with one of the most important decisions of their lives—finding a home,” added Sotelo. “Their belief in RLC Residences inspires us to keep improving, innovating, and building spaces that respond to their needs today and for the years to come.”


With its strong brand recognition, trusted customer experience, and purpose-driven initiatives, RLC Residences continues to redefine what it means to come home. 


Learn more by visiting rlcresidences.com or follow their official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok pages. 

VOLTME Announces Strategic Partnership with Cognetics Philippines to Expand Presence in Southeast Asia




[Manila, July, 2025] – VOLTME, a global leader in innovative charging solutions, is proud to announce its strategic partnership with Cognetics Philippines, a leading distributor of consumer electronics and technology solutions. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in VOLTME’s expansion strategy, further strengthening its footprint in Southeast Asia.


With this partnership, VOLTME’s cutting-edge charging products - including GaN chargers, high-speed power banks, and smart charging accessories - will now be available to a wider audience in the Philippines. Cognetics Philippines, known for its strong distribution network and expertise in technology-driven solutions, will play a crucial role in bringing VOLTME’s premium products to local retailers, e-commerce platforms, and corporate clients.


“This partnership with Cognetics Philippines aligns with our commitment to making advanced charging technology accessible to more consumers worldwide,” said Tommy Tse, COO of Voltnex Innovations, the parent company of VOLTME. “The Philippines is a key market for us, and with Cognetics’ deep market knowledge and extensive reach, we are confident that Filipino consumers will benefit from our reliable and high-performance charging solutions.”


“We are excited to join forces with VOLTME and bring their exceptional lineup of charging products to the Philippine market,” said Igue Bonifacio, Integrated Marketing Manager and Business Development Lead of Cognetics Philippines. “Our partnership will empower Filipino consumers with fast, efficient, and reliable charging solutions that enhance their digital lifestyles.”


Christine Pascua, Executive Vice President of Cognetics Philippines, added, “This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to delivering high-quality and innovative technology solutions to our customers. We look forward to a successful partnership with VOLTME.”

VOLTME has been at the forefront of innovation, developing next-generation charging solutions that cater to the evolving needs of modern consumers. With its GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology, multi-device compatibility, and sleek, compact designs, VOLTME products have gained recognition globally for their efficiency and reliability.


The VOLTME and Cognetics Philippines partnership will officially launch in Q3 2025, with an extensive rollout across major retailers and online marketplaces. Both companies are committed to delivering top-tier charging solutions, ensuring that consumers in the Philippines can experience the convenience and performance of VOLTME’s premium products.


For more information about VOLTME and its latest products in the Philippines:

 

Anko brings a fun-filled interactive play experience at newly-opened TriNoma branch

Australian home and lifestyle brand Anko has opened the doors to its newest and largest store in the Philippines at TriNoma, offering an interactive Play & Create experience that keeps kids and parents entertained all week long.


This July, Anko is inviting families to step into specially designed in-store activations that feature hands-on play zones, arts and crafts stations, and family photo spots. The experience gives kids a chance to test out toys from Anko’s Play & Create collection, while providing parents with real-life inspiration for creating fun and functional indoor play areas at home.

The collection available at Anko TriNoma, Glorietta, and Alabang Town Center includes everything from soft play sets and jump balls to wooden puzzles, action toys, plushies, and DIY craft kits, all at Anko’s signature everyday low prices.


Siri Thanissorn, Anko’s Living Home Design Manager, shares her best picks and tips for sparking joy and creativity from anywhere, even indoors on rainy days. 

Anko Home Design Manager Siri Thanissorn shares her tips on creating your own indoor play space at home.


EARLY LEARNER ESSENTIALS


For toddlers and preschoolers, the goal is to support motor skills, problem-solving, and exploration through safe, hands-on play.


Wooden Toys 

Simple, open-ended wooden toys, such as Anko’s Nesting Animals (₱550), Block Puzzles (₱130), Gyroscope Ramp (₱560), and Hammer Pound Cube (₱560), provide a solid foundation for toddler learning. Whether they’re stacking, sorting, or pounding, kids develop hand-eye coordination, cause-and-effect reasoning, and focus. Anko’s wooden toys are FSC-certified, meaning they’re made from responsibly sourced wood, which is a plus for eco-conscious families.


“These toys are gentle on the senses but big on developmental impact,” Siri says. “They’re made to be touched, tested, and enjoyed again and again.”


Soft Play Blocks
These lightweight, padded blocks, like the Wooden Car Puzzle (₱260) or Soft Play Triangle set (₱1,100), encourage safe climbing, building, and tumbling, even in small spaces. They’re ideal for early movement and imagination.


“Look for pieces with soft edges and wipeable materials,” Siri advises. “They're perfect for toddlers finding their balance.”

 


SKILLS AND ACTION SETS


Sports Sets for Kids
When kids are full of energy, compact sports sets help them stay active while building confidence and coordination. Designed with small spaces in mind, Anko’s sports sets are sturdy yet lightweight, so they can be easily moved, set up, or stored away between uses.  Kids can choose from a variety of exciting options like the basketball set (₱1,100), bowling set (₱1,290), and archery set (₱890)—all designed to bring big fun to small spaces.


“Choose multi-use or collapsible sets. They let kids practice physical skills without taking over the whole living room,” Siri says. These toys also help develop focus and patience, especially for older kids who need an engaging challenge beyond screen time.

ARTS AND CRAFTS

Let your little ones dream, design, and bring their wildest ideas to life. From drawing and coloring to molding and folding, arts and crafts unlock a world of imagination while helping kids build focus, fine motor skills, and confidence in their creativity.


The Color Pencil Pack (₱140), Mini Blocks (₱220), and Animal Origami Set (₱140) offer hours of engaging, hands-on fun that kids can enjoy on their own or with family and friends, transforming quiet moments into colorful opportunities for connection and self-expression.


SOCIAL PLAY PICKS


Cooperative play builds communication, turn-taking, and family bonding, rainy days included.


Consider Anko’s Ring Toss (₱220), Jump Balls (₱260), and Velcro Dart Board (₱440) to bring the whole family into the fun while supporting motor skills and social development. They’re easy to set up, simple to play, and endlessly replayable. Plus, they’re great for parties, siblings, or spontaneous indoor tournaments


“Having a few low-effort, high-fun games around means you’re always ready for playtime,” Siri says. “And they teach kids about patience, teamwork, and shared joy.”

“Great play spaces aren’t about having the most toys or the biggest room. They’re about choosing flexible, lasting pieces that make kids feel free to explore and imagine,” Siri explains.

Play is about creating moments where parents and their kids can bond, learn, and grow together. “When a toy lasts, adapts, and stays fun, it becomes part of those shared memories and that’s what makes it truly valuable,” Siri says.

Discover the full Play and Create range at Anko Trinoma, Glorietta, and Alabang Town Center. Sign up for the Anko Club app for early access to more home styling workshops, and follow @anko_philippines on Instagram to see how you can turn rainy days into your family’s favorite season. 

TECNO POVA 7 Series Lands in PH

TECNO, an AI-driven innovative technology brand, unveils the POVA 7 Series today with the most significant performance and design leap in its record in Philippines. Designed for the next generation of users, the new series combines futuristic, minimalist, and premium aesthetics with next-level AI capabilities and high-performance hardware tailored for immersive gaming and all-day entertainment. In a major announcement, TECNO Philippines revealed the POVA 7 series as the official smartphone partner for the PUBG MOBILE Challenges League Southeast Asia (PMCL SEA) and PUBG MOBILE Super League Southeast Asia (PMSL SEA). This strategic partnership underscores the series' elite gaming credentials and positions it at the heart of Southeast Asia's premier mobile esports battlegrounds.


The POVA 7 Series debuts with three groundbreaking devices in Philippines: the flagship POVA 7 Ultra 5G, the style-forward POVA Curve 5G, and the performance-packed POVA 7. The POVA 7, launching on June 22, redefines value with its colossal 7000mAh Mega Battery, lightning-fast 45W Flash Charge, striking Interstellar Spaceship Design, and the potent MediaTek Helio G100 Ultimate Processor. Available in two configurations – 16GB RAM+256GB ROM & 16GB RAM+128GB ROM (with 8GB extended RAM) – the POVA 7 opens for sale on June 26th. Topping the lineup, the interstellar-inspired POVA 7 Ultra 5G brings flagship power with a durable 6000mAh battery, 70W Ultra Charge, and 30W Wireless Fast Charge, powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8350 Ultimate AI Processor for top-tier gaming and multi-tasking. The POVA Curve 5G marks the POVA Series’ debut curved screen, merging a futuristic edge-to-edge display with bold performance and elevated style, expanding the family’s appeal to gamers and trendsetters.

“With the POVA 7 Series, we’re delivering not just raw power, but intelligent power that adapts to our users' real-world needs—from seamless gaming experience to immersive entertainment and AI-enhanced creativity,” said Jack Guo, General Manager of TECNO. “It definitively establishes new benchmarks not just in performance, but in trend-tech aesthetics - redefining what a smartphone can achieve through the fusion of advanced technology and contemporary style."

A Futuristic Statement of Style, Built for the Bold

Introducing an all-new design language for the POVA lineup — bold yet refined, futuristic yet elegantly minimalist — the POVA 7 Series makes a confident visual statement for the next generation. Inspired by “Interstellar Spaceship Design,” the POVA 7 Series stands out with bold, sleek lines and a minimalist, pure style designed to capture the imagination of a new generation of users. Its signature triangular geometry emblem punctuates purity with personality.

The technological progress also seamlessly converges with software revolutions in HiOS 15 Special for POVA 7 Series - marking the most significant OS evolution in POVA's history. For the first time, TECNO introduces system-wide customization with user-defined icons, fonts, and dynamic wallpapers, alongside a clean, bloat-free experience. This major update delivers a uniquely expressive and distraction-free interface, brought to life by neumorphism-inspired design and POVA’s exclusive typeface, setting a new standard for personalization and purity across the TECNO ecosystem.

Power Without Limits: Next-Level Gaming and Off-Grid Connectivity

The POVA 7 Series is engineered to effortlessly power through demanding days and thrilling gaming sessions. POVA 7 empowers users to dominate games, stream content, and stay connected from sunrise to well beyond sunset, eliminating everyday compromises. At its core, the MediaTek Dimensity G100 Ultimate processor (Antutu Score: 446,335) ensures buttery-smooth performance for both daily tasks and intense gaming. Banish low-battery anxiety: the massive 7000mAh Mega Battery delivers an astounding 36.76 hours of daily use (DOU), supported by 45W Flash Charge (Smart Charge Mode) that juices up 50% in just 30 minutes and achieves a full charge in 70 minutes. Engineered for longevity, the battery withstands over 1800 cycles, promising safe and durable performance for up to four years. 

C:\Users\zian.wang\Desktop\POVA 7官宣上市新闻稿配图\POVA 7-FreeLink.jpgPOVA 7-FreeLink

Gamers gain the edge with the HyperEngine Game Engine for optimized smoothness and battery life, the advanced Hyper Cooling System, ultra-precise multi-touch controls, WiFi low-latency tuning with horizontal grip signal optimization, and immersive Dolby Atmos®-powered dual speakers. For adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts, the groundbreaking FreeLink feature enables peer-to-peer calls and messages over distances up to 1km without any cellular signal, keeping you connected even off-grid during hikes or emergencies. This is seamless power, perfected for real life.

Unlock Practical TECNO AI — Smarter Features, Accessible to All

For the first time, AI is fully integrated across the entire POVA 7 Series, strategically aligning with the brand's AI-driven intelligent ecosystem. Outshining same-tier brands, POVA 7 Series combines comprehensive AI integration with best-in-class multilingual processing capabilities, setting new intelligent performance standards for its category.

At the heart of it is the AI Anywhere Portal, a one-stop command center offering seamless access to all core AI tools and daily shortcuts. One tap opens a world of productivity and creativity.

  • Ask Ella: A dynamic smart assistant designed to help you schedule tasks, summarize content, or rewrite text. Whether it’s for work, study, or daily life, Ella adapts to your needs with natural precision. For instance, if the user is exploring a new city and encounters an unfamiliar landmark, simply snap a photo and ask Ella for instant information, bridging the gap between curiosity and knowledge effortlessly.


  • AI Full-Link Call Assistant: Including AI Call Translation, Noise Cancellation, Auto Answer, and Call Summary — for clearer, multilingual conversations, even on the go.

  • AI Writing: Built-in tools for generating text, proofreading emails, and summarizing articles, triggered right from your selection. Perfect for content creators, students, and multitaskers.

  • Circle to Search: Just draw a circle around any visual element — a landmark, outfit, or product — and get instant, relevant results. Travel smarter, shop faster, and explore deeper.

  • AI Studio for image AI creation and editing: Create social-ready visuals using AIGC Portrait 2.0, AI Eraser, and AI Image Extender — allowing users to transform, retouch, or expand photos in seconds using touch or voice.

The TECNO POVA 7 Series officially rolls out across the Philippines starting June 2025. Marking its debut, the POVA 7 (16GB RAM + 128GB ROM & 16GB RAM + 256GB ROM, 8GB Extended RAM) goes on sale June 26th during the Online Back to School Sale Campaign. It will be available in Geek Black, Magic Silver, and Hyper Titanium at the following Suggested Retail Prices (SRP):

  • 16GB+128GB: PHP 6,999

  • 16GB+256GB: PHP 7,999

Special Launch Offers:

  • TikTok First Sale (June 26): Grab the POVA 7 (16GB+128GB) at an exclusive launch price of PHP 5,999.

  • Shopee First Sale (June 26): Snag the POVA 7 (16GB+256GB) at a special introductory price of PHP 6,749.

The flagship POVA 7 Ultra 5G and the stylish POVA Curve 5G will launch in the Philippines in Q3 2025.

 

Wednesday, July 2, 2025

CDA Empowers Cooperatives Through SM Supermalls’ Weekend Market

Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) and SM Supermalls have officially sealed a strategic partnership through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing held on Monday, July 1, 2025, at the SM Supermalls Headquarters in Pasay City. The agreement marks the beginning of a joint effort to empower Filipino cooperatives by giving them access to high-foot-traffic mall spaces through the SM Weekend Market — a platform dedicated to showcasing local products, homegrown talent, and Filipino entrepreneurship.


L-R: Royston A. Cabunag, Assistant Vice President and Lead for MSME and Job Fairs, Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations of SM Supermalls formalized partnership through a MOA signing with CDA Chairperson Usec. Alexander B. Raquepo and CDA Administrator Asec. Santiago S. Lim, that aims to empower Filipino cooperatives through the SM Weekend Market initiative.

The MOA was signed by Undersecretary Alexander B. Raquepo, CDA Chairperson, and Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations of SM Supermalls, in the presence of key officials from both institutions. “This is a historic partnership between the private and public sectors,” said Usec. Raquepo during his remarks. “We take great pride in this collaboration with SM Supermalls, which represents a powerful step forward in uplifting our micro, small and medium cooperative entrepreneurs. This model partnership will not only provide access to markets, but help elevate the economic well-being of our communities.”


Fresh, proudly Filipino produce takes the spotlight supporting local farmers and cooperatives at the SM Weekend Market at SM City Calamba.

Shoppers enjoy direct access to farm-fresh produce at the SM Weekend Market where farmers are given dedicated selling spaces in select SM Supermalls.

Local farmers showcase and sell their fresh harvest to shoppers at the SM Weekend Market, a platform by SM Supermalls that connects producers directly to consumers in high-traffic mall locations.

Under the agreement, CDA will endorse eligible cooperatives across the country to participate in the SM Weekend Market. In turn, SM Supermalls will make space available in key mall locations for a minimal fee—intended only to help cover maintenance costs. “The SM Weekend Market was born out of a simple but powerful idea — to give farmers and local producers, especially those in cooperatives, the chance to bring their goods closer to the people, in places they wouldn’t normally have access to,” said Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations at SM Supermalls. “With CDA as our partner, we are excited to open more doors and more mall spaces to co-ops across the country. This partnership will allow more communities to thrive, more stories to be told, and more Filipino-made products to be celebrated.” 

Lively displays of locally grown vegetables welcome shoppers at the SM Weekend Market at SM City Southmall.

The event marks the start of a nationwide collaboration between CDA and SM Supermalls, with more updates and market rollouts expected in the coming months.

 

Community at Work: SM Cares Joins Brigada Eskwela 2025

In support of the Department of Education’s (DepEd) annual Brigada Eskwela initiative, SM Supermalls mobilized thousands of volunteers across its malls nationwide from June 9 to 13, 2025, to help prepare public schools for the upcoming academic year. This year’s Brigada Eskwela carried the theme, “Nagkakaisa para sa Handa at Ligtas na Pagbabalik Eskwela.”


Driven by the spirit of bayanihan, SM employee volunteers join Brigada Eskwela to help public schools prepare for the new academic year—fostering cleaner, safer, and more welcoming spaces where students and communities can thrive.


SM employees in action—offering their hands and hearts to help schools gear up for another inspiring year of learning.

SM North EDSA volunteers sweep hallways for Brigada Eskwela—helping create clean, focused spaces where students can learn and grow.


As a long-time DepEd partner, SM Supermalls once again participated in Brigada Eskwela 2025 as part of its broader commitment to youth empowerment, environmental stewardship, and inclusive community building. 


The initiative was rolled out across 75 SM Supermalls, with more than a thousand employee-volunteers working hand-in-hand with DepEd, local government units (LGUs), school representatives, and community members. It empowered community volunteers to make a tangible impact by helping schools prepare safe, clean, and inspiring learning environments.


“We are proud to be part of Brigada Eskwela again this year. Education is the cornerstone of nation-building, and through volunteerism and shared responsibility, we aim to help create safe and welcoming learning spaces for students all across the country,” said Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls.


An employee volunteer from SM Center Pasig organizes learning materials as part of Brigada Eskwela efforts to support public school readiness.

With every wipe and every gesture of care, SM City Novaliches volunteers bring classrooms closer to a brighter, cleaner start.


Demonstrating hands-on commitment, an employee volunteer from SM City Baliwag carefully stacks hollow blocks—contributing to stronger school infrastructure.

Embodying the spirit of bayanihan, SM City Sorsogon employee volunteers paint school chairs with dedication—bringing new life to classrooms through Brigada Eskwela.


Employee volunteers from SM Center Ormoc paint classrooms as part of Brigada Eskwela, helping create more inspiring learning spaces where students can thrive.

An SM City Mindpro volunteer helps clean the school grounds during Brigada Eskwela—making way for brighter days and better learning.


SM employee-volunteers engaged in a wide range of preparatory activities including classroom cleaning and disinfection, repainting of walls and learning spaces, repairs of desks and chairs, and the turnover of essential learning materials. Through shared efforts, this annual initiative not only enhanced school facilities but also strengthened community ties and encouraged a culture of unity, pride, and collective responsibility for education. 


The program benefited 66 public schools across the country, helping ensure that thousands of Filipino learners return to a clean, safe, and functional learning environment when classes resume.


By supporting Brigada Eskwela 2025, SM Supermalls reinforces its continued support and alignment with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, reflecting its commitment to fostering inclusive, sustainable development in every community it serves.


This initiative also forms part of SM’s broader advocacy under SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, which champions programs for Persons with Disabilities, Senior Citizens, the Environment, Women and Breastfeeding Mothers, Children and Youth and Bike-Friendly initiatives.

For more updates on SM’s social good initiatives, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares or follow @OfficialSMCares on social media.