Limited-edition 'merch,' AI ‘homework assist’ among back-to-school must-haves
MANILA, Philippines — Another school year is about to unfold, but while vacation is soon to be over for students, shopping for back-to-school needs and wants is part of the adventure and excitement.
To kick-off the new school year with renewed verve and motivation, check out the following new releases and deals that could give the best bang for your buck:
Lego launches new Space line with multiple ways to play
The fascination with what lies beyond our blue sky remains strong as a recent global survey conducted by the Lego Group reveals that 86% of its children respondents are interested in finding new planets, stars, and galaxies, and 77% want to travel to space. Inspired by these findings, the toy company has been drawing from the universe for over 50 years, aiming to unite children's curiosity about space through the ultimate creative medium of bricks.
This year, the company unveiled several epic Space-themed sets like the 31142 Creator 3 in 1 Space Roller Coaster and the 60431 Space Explorer Rover and Alien Life, enabling kids to explore new worlds and unleash their creativity. The 31152 Space Astronaut is a 3-in-1 building set that allows the builder to blast off as an astronaut into space with a detachable jet-propulsion backpack and a futuristic space dog. Curious explorers of what’s beyond can join in on the Friends 42605 Mars Space Base and Rocket where all your space friends can gather. Visit Lego.com/Space to submit your Funstellation and explore space your way.
Drop by your nearest Lego Certified Store (Alabang Town Center, BGC, TriNoma, Shangri-La Plaza, UP Town Center) now or visit all leading toy stores near you or through official stores online such as bankeebricks.ph, Lazada, and Shopee.
Find happiness in preparing ‘baon’ with Midea
What is happiness for you? For Concepcion Midea Inc. Philippines (CMIP), it is providing world-class home appliances that create timeless moments and satisfaction.
In line with the release of Midea's newest Discover Happiness video series, the appliances brand aims to extend happiness brought by life's tiny moments to one’s home and school. The new video series feature stories of individuals sharing different perspectives on the joy brought by life’s tiny moments.
ITOOH Homestyle champions Filipino craftsmanship
As ITOOH Homestyle celebrates its third birthday, it highlights proud Filipino crafts such as a decorative fruit bowl as a testament to its commitment of championing local craftsmanship and design.
A unique item, this bowl from Cebu is a masterpiece of Bohemian style, crafted entirely from eco-friendly rattan, serving as a versatile woven basket and charming décor. For more information, visit Shopitooh.com.
iAcademy offers Fashion Design & Technology courses
Information Technology school iAcademy recently held Style Conquest, a fashion runway show that celebrates the visionaries of tomorrow by showcasing innovative collections of emerging designers from diverse backgrounds.
In a fashion scene often dominated by established names, Style Conquest is breaking the mold to create a platform for new and independent designers to share their unique creations.
This year, under the theme of “weaving stories through fashion,” the show featured the creations of the school’s six Fashion Design and Technology graduating students who showcased their varied tapestries of creativity, where each piece tells a unique story.
Style Conquest, said Fashion Design and Technology Chairperson Jean Dee, was a “joyous academic celebration where creativity meets opportunity,” and there was “harmonious blend of innovative artistry and personal expression.”
Prior to the show, Filipino designers Avel Bacudio and Puey Quinones held talks on leadership, heritage and advocacy in iAcademy Nexus, Yakal Street, Makati City.
Affordable school, office shoes at Payless Shoesource
Since its inception in 1956 in Topeka, Kansas, Payless has been synonymous with quality footwear at affordable prices. In July 2010, the brand brought its revolutionary approach to the Philippines through a partnership with Footwear Specialty Retailers, Inc. (FSRI), a division of the esteemed retail company Stores Specialists, Inc. (SSI). Catering to the family-oriented culture of the Filipino market and offering accessible fashion, the label quickly became a beloved brand across the nation.
The brand’s commitment to offering a wide range of shoes and accessories for every member of the family remains unwavering. With a self-selection approach, all stores provide an engaging and seamless shopping experience where the latest shoes are presented by size and style so customers can easily find what they are looking for, in the perfect fit. Move toward the accessories section, and shoppers will see bag selections and footwear essentials like socks, in-soles, and shoe cleaners, among others.
As the brand marks its 14th anniversary in the country, it's not just another year on the calendar; it's a celebration of 14 years of providing fashionable footwear options at unbeatable prices to Filipino families. Since its debut, the brand has expanded to 48 stores throughout the country, continually growing to meet the diverse needs of its customers. The journey and milestone celebration continues with the grand opening of its newest branch in One Ayala, Makati City this July.
The new 244.86-sq.m. abode located on the 3rd floor of One Ayala brings a fresh and dynamic shopping experience. While retaining the self-select concept, it shows a revamped layout and design. The ambiance features polished concrete column walls complemented by wooden fixtures, creating a modern yet inviting atmosphere.
Notable updates include LED screens to play campaign videos and strategically placed sections for shoes and bags across various categories such as Office, Athletics, and Kids. The color scheme incorporates a sophisticated blend of black, gray, and white, accented by the signature Payless orange, adding vibrancy to the space while maintaining a sleek aesthetic. Wooden shelves remain a staple, providing a classic touch amidst the contemporary updates.
Step into any of the brand’s store and be greeted with a selection of brands and styles, including the newest drops from its sought-after Heritage brands. These styles, which have been part of Payless over the years, have undergone significant improvements in technology and design since late 2023.
Comfort Plus is versatile and perfect for daily on-the-go wear and professional looks. A highlight within the range is the lean and elegant Women’s Walsh Sandal, giving elegance and functionality to the whole outfit. Its slender ankle strap, paired with a 2" block heel, offers a subtle lift, while the padded insole ensures lasting comfort throughout the day.
The Comfort Plus Men’s Chance Sport Oxford Collection is where casual simplicity meets refined style. With a round toe, laces for a precise fit, and a durable outsole, these styles are made for comfort and any occasion.
For athletics, Airwalk presents Concur Runners. Conquer any terrain with ease, thanks to its combination upper, padded tongue and collar, cushioned memory foam insole, and lightweight design. Available in a variety of colorways, this collection caters to every family member's active lifestyle.
For athleisure and casual sport finds, LA Gear’s Dash Court Sneaker collection is a timeless must-have. Each style boasts a tumbled upper, roomy round toe, and padded collar for ultimate comfort. Whether hitting the gym or running errands, these sneakers offer style and functionality for the whole family.
Payless, with stores in One Ayala, Trinoma, Market Market, SM North Edsa, SM Megamall, SM San Lazaro, SM Manila, SM Southmall, SM Fairview, SM Marikina, Festival Mall, Robinsons Malate, Ali Mall; outside Metro Manila branches in select SM stores, Robinsons malls, and Ayala Malls; and online in payless.ph, Zalora, Lazada, or Shopee, remains a go-to specialty family footwear retailer that has stood strong globally for over 50 years and a successful 14 years in the Philippines. With a unique self-select approach in-store and exceptional customer service, the brand strives to make every shopping trip a satisfying experience.
Stay cool for school with new Hanabishi BT21 fans
Hanabishi Appliances partnered with BT21 to release a special edition mini jumbo fan collection, featuring the globally beloved characters.
The Hanabishi BT21 Special Edition Mini Jumbo Fan Collection represents the right blend of functionality and fun design, inspired by BT21 characters.
Since its launch in 2017, BT21 has come out with varied products bearing the charming designs of the BT21 Universe, available in candy colors and featuring a different character for each fan: sleepyhead Koya, kind and loving foodie RJ, mini prankster Shooky, expressive-faced dancing machine Mang, the pure-at-heart Chimmy, off-the-wall curious soul prince Tata, and brawny hearty rumps Cooky.
All the fans have a three-speed option control, 90-degree tilt function, thermal fuse protection, powerful airflow and turbine grill, with a retail price of P1,299 each.
The Hanabishi special-edition mini jumbo fans featuring BT21 are now officially available in select stores nationwide.
McDonald’s now serving McSavers ‘Sulit Busog’ Meals all day
Enjoy McSavers Sulit-Busog Meals from breakfast to dinner as McDonald's extends its offers all day long, each at a price of P99 in all stores nationwide.
“Since the launch of McSavers Sulit Busog Meals last April, the response has been overwhelmingly positive,” stated the brand’s Philippines Marketing Manager Yves Nacpil. “Building on that, customers can now enjoy the sulit price of P99 during breakfast hours as we add two new breakfast offers in the line-up: our Cheesy Eggdesal with Hash Browns and drink meal and Longganisa with Egg and drink meal.”
The two new breakfast McSavers Sulit-Busog Meals join Crispy Chicken Fillet Ala King with extra rice, 1-pc. Chicken McDo, Cheeseburger with fries, and 1-pc. Mushroom Pepper Steak with fries meals.
National Book Store’s back-to-school promo with over P1.7 million in prizes
We can already picture it — the wide-eyed wonder of kids of all ages, mothers completing their kids' checklists, and, most importantly, the sight of brand-new school supplies in one fresh backpack. That’s a staple at National Book Store, the destination for affordable school and office supplies.
The company’s house brand, Best Buy, offers the lowest-priced items without compromising quality. If you’re short on time to shop in-store, their online shops are always available. Experience efficient shopping with fast and free shipping from the comfort of your home.
This year, your back-to-school shopping at National Book Store is also made more sulit with the Panalo Balik 'Skwela Mo Raffle promo. Over P1.7 million worth of prizes will be up for grabs for 17 winners nationwide. Promo runs until August 30. See website (nationalbookstore.com) posters for more details.
There are even more perks to being a Laking National QR member than just having double raffle entries at the Panalo Balik 'Skwela Mo Raffle promo. By joining for free, members can now get to enjoy exclusive benefits. Members will earn Sulit Coins every time they shop at any National Book Store, National Book Store Express, Art Bar, or Kids Ink branch nationwide. They can also be earned through shopping online at www.nationalbookstore.com, and on the official National Book Store stores on Lazada, Shopee, TikTok, and Zalora. These Sulit Coins can be redeemed in increments of P1 and then used to buy books and supplies in future purchases.
For over 80 years, the brand has been an integral part of Filipino families’ back-to-school shopping, helping foster core memories between parents and kids as they shop for school supplies.
Enjoy ‘jelly-cious’ glow-up with Avon’s Simply Pretty Magic Collection
Avon, touted as the no. 1 makeup brand in the Philippines, introduces the latest addition to your beauty routine: the Jelly Lipstick from the Simply Pretty Magic Collection. The lipstick’s magic reacts to the lips’ pH level to create a unique shade for the wearer. This new cult favorite promises a “jelly-cious” glow-up that encourages individuals to express their unique beauty effortlessly.
Filipina actress and Simply Pretty Ambassador, Kyline Alcantara, amplifies the collection's essence. Like the revolutionary makeup line, she embodies the values of self-expression and confidence.
"Avon’s Simply Pretty Magic Collection, especially the Jelly Lipstick, celebrates all beauties, and I can confidently say na they really work their magic. The collection helps me embrace my uniqueness, and I can say na they're more than just makeup; they're tools of self-expression and empowerment. I'm proud to represent this collection," stated Alcantara.
The Simply Pretty Magic Collection is an innovative, high-quality, multi-use, and affordable routine, without a doubt. Avon’s Jelly Lipstick joins the collection’s simple and easy-to-use makeup essentials crafted to cater to various beauty needs.
Call it magic or the Simply Pretty Jelly Lipstick. This product's pH-reactive formula gives each individual a personalized shade that no one else has. All it takes is one swipe to start its transformation. The jelly-like bullet comes in three shades: Aloe Verde, Magnolia Wine, and Jojoba Coral, infused with ingredients that are good for the lips. With its moisturizing properties and vibrant color payoff, this new holy grail is better than a balm, trendier than a tint, and lighter than lipstick.
Included in the Simply Pretty Collection are all-time favorites Avon’s Simply Pretty Magic Lipstick and Simply Pretty Magic Lip Balm. Simply Pretty Magic Lipsticks, with four shades available, features a buildable pigment that leaves a pink stain upon application and delivers a smooth feel on the lips. On the other hand, the Simply Pretty Magic Lip Balm is a clear, color-changing balm that moisturizes and transforms lips to a flattering pink shade that perfectly complements the skin tone.
“Avon continues to empower every woman and encourage them to embrace their individuality with the Simply Pretty Jelly Lipstick. Whether they prefer a bold look or something more low key, the Simply Pretty Jelly Lipstick helps them feel their best at an affordable price point,” stated Anna Garces, Avon Philippines’ Head of Marketing.
Simply Pretty Jelly Lipstick is available exclusively at avonshop.ph, Lazada, Shopee, TikTok Shop, and through your Avon Representatives.
New school beauty essentials from Vice Cosmetics
Filipino beauty brand Vice Cosmetics recently launched Matte For All Flexi matte lipstick and Soft Veil Tint in new, most requested shades.
Robinsons Department Store’s back-to-school deals
The second half of the year has kicked off and before we know it, a new school year is about to begin. After a fun summer full of rest and hanging out with friends, it’s time to prepare the kids’ backpacks with school essentials.
Worry no more because Robinsons Department Store has you covered with your back-to-school needs. Their catalog features a wide selection of products that will surely be useful for the new school season, ranging from uniforms, leather shoes, school bags, and other accessories you can bring to class.
School shopping is made even more fun and affordable with Robinsons Department Store’s promos. Go Rewards members have a chance to be 1 of 50 lucky winners of P20,000 cash for a minimum single-receipt purchase of P3,500 with their Go Rewards. The raffle period lasts until August 31.
Shoppers also get a Free GoTyme Shopping Bag with a minimum purchase of P3,000 using their GoTyme Bank Visa debit card. The inclusive promo dates are August 16-18, 30-31, and September 1.
Besides securing your back-to-school essentials, you can also get up to P500 free gift certificates when you shop using your BPI Credit Cards until August 31. You can get a P300 Gift Certificate for a min. single-receipt straight spend of Php5,000 and a P500 Gift Certificate for a min. single-receipt installment spend of P10,000.
If you like going on a walk or a run, you can also find sports and fitness essentials for the best deals, which range from running shoes to sports backpacks. Enjoy discounts of up to 50% off on Sports and Active Lifestyle Items and a free Class Pass from select partners when you shop for sports items.
Home is where we get our dose of relaxation and spend time with our loved ones after spending time in school. Spice up your living space with new home items and decor from Robinsons Department Store. You can also get P300 off every Wednesday when you buy home items worth P3,000.
These deals and discounts are available across all Robinsons Department Store branches. Shopping for your essentials is also easier thanks to the flexible payment terms. Get 0% interest and Pay Later on a 3-month installment with a minimum P3,000 single-receipt purchase or a 6-month installment with a minimum P5,000 single-receipt purchase when you shop using any major credit card. Avail of Robinsons Department Store’s Call-to-Order service, where a personal shopper will ensure that you get your desired items. The items are also available on the Robinsons Department Store’s Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok shops.
Samsung unveils new lifestyle gadgets with homework assist, AI tools
Samsung recently unveiled Galaxy Z Flip6, its most intelligent expression tool, and Fold6, its most most intelligent large screen, crafted to enhance daily life with Artificial Intelligence (AI) features that offer personalized assistance tailored to one’s needs. These features include the following:
- Circle to search: Easily learn more about anything shown on your screen without switching apps. Just touch and hold the Home button or navigation handle, then circle anything on the screen to start a Google search.
- Note Assist: Note Assist can automatically format, summarize, correct, translate, and generate covers for your notes, making your note-taking smarter and more efficient. It can also transcribe recordings.
- Portrait Studio: Create a portrait in any of five image styles: Studio photo, Cartoon, Vintage, Watercolor and Animation.
- Sketch to Image: Draw anything you want to add in a photo and AI will generate an object in the image.
- Interpreter: This new feature lets you translate a conversation anytime you need to talk to someone in person who speaks another language. Both of you can hear translations read out loud in addition to reading them on the screen. It also provides real-time interpretation for listening to lectures and guides.
- Phone Live Translate: Live Translate provides real-time translations during a call. The other person can hear what you say in their language, and you can hear their response in your language. Translations will also appear on the screen.
Embrace the future of mobile technology with Globe and Samsung. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a busy professional, or someone who simply wants the best in innovation, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6 and Fold6 on GPlans provide the perfect blend of advanced features and flexible options.
Fight hunger with Chowking Lucky Combos
In a time when every peso counts, finding value without compromising on flavor has never been more important. The Chowking Mix & Match: Lucky Combos is one way how one can enjoy a variety of favorites for P99.
Until August 31, one can savor a variety of options tailored to suit every craving while on a budget. Take your pick from pairing main dishes like Chao Fan, Chunky Asado Siopao, Pancit Canton, or Wonton Mami with your choice of sides from Halo-Halo Supreme (small), three-piece Buchi, Chicharap, Kangkong with Bagoong, or a Medium Drink — all for P99. The promo is available all day, every day exclusively via dine-in and takeout only.
Jack ‘n Jill Piattos releases new limited-edition flavor
If you’re in a hunt for a new snack, you can check out Jack ’n Jill Piattos’ newest flavor, Cheddar & Sour Cream. This limited-edition flavor might just be the snack that could have your taste buds dancing.
Whether you’re a cheddar cheese fan or a sour cream lover, you’ll find the flavor combination of Jack ‘n Jill Piattos Cheddar & Sour Cream to be ideal. Rich, creamy cheddar cheese is mixed together with irresistible tangy sour cream, enveloping every surface and corner of your favorite crispy, hexagonal-shaped potato chips. Grab a bag or two (or more) so you have a delicious snack companion for your “me-time” moments.
Jack ‘n Jill Piattos, one of the beloved snack brands in the Philippines, is from Universal Robina Corporation (URC), maker of snack and beverage brands such as C2 Cool and Clean, Great Taste Coffee, Jack ‘n Jill Cloud 9, Maxx, and Magic Crackers. Visit www.urc.com.ph for more information about URC.
Designer school shoes, bags from new Tory Burch collection
Low-heeled black leather shoes, scents and bags made of recycled and sustainable materials are among the must-haves for school and work recently launched by New York luxury brand Tory Burch as part of its new summer collection.
For its latest campaign, model Emily Ratajkowski traveled to vibrant Mexico City with photographer Oliver Hadlee Pearch. Emily tours the city’s modern architecture and world-class restaurants — many run by women chefs — modeling the collection’s bright colors, hand-crafted textures, and graphic zebra prints. The brand’s iconic Miller sandal, Kira handbag, Ella Bio tote, and Clip Swimsuit are reimagined in sunset hues, and styled with ready-to-wear pieces from the runway like the Hoop dress and goddess mini.
The ultimate warm weather collection “celebrating anywhere adventure takes us” is inspired by Tory’s recent trip to Africa. This year’s Summer Capsule is brought to life through playful updates to the brand’s key silhouettes.
Neutral tones and earthy textures are tied together with a pop of pale blue reminiscent of a safari’s clear skies. A new colorway of the magnified zebra print seen earlier this season narrates key silhouettes.
The design team wanted to create a new, exclusive monogram in all-over leather that perfectly complements the label’s existing jacquard collection. This new T Monogram Leather provides customers with a tonal and sophisticated version of the classic T Monogram shapes they already adore.
Crafted from a soft woven fabric made to mimic raffia, T Monogram Raffia is pliable, durable, and is able to take color and render a crisp look to our T Monogram motif. Meanwhile, a graphic print grounded in the idea of strength and harmony, the Zebra print is inspired by the strong features and bold color-blocking found on zebras.
In the Philippines, Tory Burch is exclusively distributed by Stores Specialists, Inc., and is located at Greenbelt 5, Rustan’s Makati, Rustan’s Shangri-La, Power Plant Mall, Rustan’s Cebu, and Nustar Cebu.
Founded in 2004 in New York City, Tory Burch is an American luxury brand known for beautiful, timeless pieces. As a designer, Tory draws inspiration from art, her family, and women globally. Her collections include ready-to-wear, handbags, footwear, accessories, jewelry, home and beauty. Empowering women is Tory’s guiding principle, underpinning her design philosophy and driving the work of the Tory Burch Foundation. Tory launched the Foundation in 2009 to empower women entrepreneurs by providing access to capital, education, and community.
SaladStop! presents new BBQ Series for health buffs
Nothing beats a hearty meal to keep your mind and body energized. Whether you’re a fitness buff, a wellness advocate, or simply a lover of delicious and wholesome food, SaladStop! is a daily source for salads, wraps, and warm protein bowls to fuel your day and help you achieve your personal best—be it at work, home, or in the gym.
But how about spicing things up with a mouthwatering mix of smoky, sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in your meal? It’s all about the sizzle when you try the new BBQ Series, a new seasonal menu offer from SaladStop! Complete with lean proteins, grains, veggies, and tantalizing sauces, this latest lineup of warm protein bowls will satisfy your cravings while packing in on nutrients. Launched last July 16, it features two variants, featuring chicken or beef, which blend traditional BBQ flavors with health-conscious ingredients for a unique and delicious twist.
First up is the Beef Ranger. This warm protein bowl packs a punch with a medley of BBQ Roasted Skirt Steak, warm mixed grains, romaine, rockets, charred corn, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and capsicums. The bowl is finished with a delightful combination of White Truffle Vinaigrette and Texas BBQ Dressing for an extra layer of flavor. The Beef Ranger is the perfect pick-me-up after a long run or a winding meeting at the office.
Savor the Wild Wild Chicken. This protein powerhouse offers 30 grams of protein and features BBQ Roasted Chicken, warm quinoa, romaine, charred corn, cheddar, avocado, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and fresh coriander. The Chimichurri Dressing adds a zesty kick to this spicy, flavorful bowl. Whether you're a fan of a good ‘ol chicken meal or simply looking for a hearty option, this is the bowl for you. Fuel up as you savor every bite, getting your wild on before that big presentation at work or that crazy WOD at the box.
Available until September 9, these new offerings are also available with a dessert when subscribed at saladstop.pickup.ph. Specialty Food Retailers, Inc. (SFRI) is the exclusive franchise holder of SaladStop! in the Philippines. SFRI