Puregold Taps Into Experiential Retail with First Hakot Relay Run

PUREGOLD recently transformed a fun Filipino activity into a large-scale community engagement platform with the launch of the Puregold Hakot Relay Run at Burnham Green Park in Luneta. 

Held on November 22, the event prompted a strong turnout with participants numbering in the thousands, demonstrating the retailer’s continued focus on community-building initiatives that are aligned with its long-term brand and customer growth strategy.

Puregold Price Club, Inc. President Vincent Co led the first wave of runners at the first-ever Puregold Hakot Relay Run. (Photo by Running Photographers)

Blending fitness, entertainment, and Puregold’s iconic “hakot” experience, the three-kilometer relay introduced an innovative twist to the traditional fun run format. Teams of three joined the race not for speed but for strategy, competing in a hakot segment wherein runners grabbed grocery items and filled their sling bags before tagging the next team member. The ensuing scenario was a vibrant and adrenaline-filled activity that brought families, barkadas, and communities together in a uniquely Puregold way.

Puregold also staged a Sunset Concert at the venue, where OPM and P-Pop performers such as KAIA, G22, Press Hit Play, and the duo BREKA (Brent Manalo and Mika Salamanca) filled the park with live music and turned the relay into an afternoon celebration for families and fans alike.

Pinoy Big Brother (PBB) big winner duo BREKA (Brent Manalo and Mika Salamanca) grace the Sunset Concert of Puregold’s Hakot Relay Run.

All participating runners were winners as they took home a Puregold Hakot Relay Finisher’s Medal, an official race singlet, and a grocery sling bag, made exclusively for this inaugural event.

The Puregold Hakot Relay Run is reflective of the company’s broader goal to uplift Filipino communities and celebrate everyday wins.

 P-Pop performers KAIA (Charice, Angela, Alexa, Sophia, and Charlotte)

Puregold President Vincent Co, who led the first wave of runners, said, “Wins come in many forms. This is a new one for us, as Puregold tries to create moments where families, friends, and communities can connect. This Hakot Relay Run gave us a chance to do exactly that.”

P-pop female alphas G22 (AJ, Alfea, and Jaz)

The tremendous success of Puregold’s first-of-its-kind relay affirms the potential of more creative, community-driven initiatives to strengthen brand affinity while deepening customer loyalty.

Stay in the loop. Subscribe to the Puregold Channel on YouTube, like @puregold.shopping on Facebook, and follow @puregold_ph on Instagram and Twitter and @puregoldph on TikTok.

Filipino boy band Press Hit Play (CHRLS, Yuuki, JP, and Sev) 

TIEZA Expands Tourist Rest Areas Nationwide to Strengthen Philippine Tourism Infrastructure

THE Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) is set to build 40 additional Tourist Rest Areas (TRAs) across key destinations in the Philippines, reinforcing the country's commitment to improving travel convenience, enhancing visitor experience, and supporting local economic growth through tourism.

According to TIEZA Chief Operating Officer Mark T. Lapid, the expansion of TRAs forms part of the agency's strategic infrastructure program designed, together with the Department of Tourism (DOT), to make travel across the Philippines more accessible, comfortable, and sustainable for both local and international visitors. 

"Tourist Rest Areas serve as essential stopovers for travelers offering not only clean facilities and rest areas but also a reliable source of local tourism information and a space to showcase regional products," Lapid said. 

"Each TRA reflects our goal to make travel in the Philippines more connected, more comfortable, and more community-centered. 

More Tourist Rest Areas, More Connected Destinations

Of the 40 new TRAs in the pipeline, two located in Kabankalan, Negros Occidental and Lingayen, Pangasinan have already been completed and are set for turnover to their respective local government units (LGUs). Meanwhile, 12 TRAs are already operational and currently managed by LGUs in the following destinations:

Cebu Province: Medellin, Moalboal, Carcar, and Carmen

Palawan: Roxas and Brooke's Point

Davao del Norte: Samal Island

Bukidnon. Manolo Fortich

Bohol: Dauis

Ilocos Norte: Pagudpud

Camarines Sur: San Jose

Sultan Kudarat: Tacurong City 

The additional TRAs under construction are located in Iloilo, Benguet, Pangasinan, Negros Occidental. Eastem Samar, Misamis Oriental, Tawi-Tawi, Mountain Province, and Batanes, among other major tourism routes and gateway destinations. Each TRA will feature modem, gender-sensitive restrooms, information desks, parking areas, and dedicated spaces for local product exhibits, promoting regional craftsmanship and entrepreneurship. 

A Model for Sustainable Tourism Development

The TRA Program was recognized as the Infrastructure Project of the Year (Tourism Category) at the 2024 Gov Media Awards in Singapore, underscoring TIEZA's role as a leading implementer of sustainable tourism infrastructure in Southeast Asia.

Lapid emphasized that the project is funded through travel tax collections, ensuring that every peso contributed by outbound Filipino travelers is reinvested into the tourism value chain. "Every travel tax payment goes a long way." Lapid added. "It becomes a road, a rest area, or a facility that enhances the visitor experience and creates opportunities for local communities. This is a tangible example of how we are Building Tourism Together tuming contributions into lasting impact.

Empowering Communities Through Tourism

Beyond infrastructure, the TRAs also serve as economic catalysts for local businesses. By providing curated spaces for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to sell local delicacies, crafts, and souvenirs, each TRA connects travelers directly with community producers. creating inclusive economic opportunities across provinces.

TIEZA continues to partner with LGUs, the Department of Tourism (DOT), and local stakeholders to identify priority sites that align with tourism circuits and road networks under the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023-2028.

Tourism is a shared responsibility, Lapid said. "By working with local govemments and communities, we ensure that every infrastructure project contributes to inclusive growth, sustainability, and pride of place."

Launched in partnership with the Department of Tourism (DOT), the Tourist Rest Area Program is a nationwide initiative that aims to establish world-class, standardized rest stops in major travel corridors. Each TRA provides clean, accessible facilities, tourist information, and retail spaces for local products elevating the travel experience and promoting Filipino hospitality at every stop.

For more information, visit https://lieza.gov.ph and follow @TIEZAOfficial on Facebook, and @tiezagovph on Instagram and X

Rhea Tan announces Vice Ganda, Ion Perez as new Belle Dolls faces

PHENOMENAL Unkabogable Superstar Vice Ganda and Kapamilya star Ion Perez were officially announced as the new faces of Belle Dolls, a brand under Beautéderm Corporation helmed by businesswoman Rhea Tan, on Monday at Solaire North.

Ushering in the brand’s new era, Rhea thanked Vice and Ion, who looked radiant during the contract signing. 

“We're grateful to enter an exciting era with Ion, whose authenticity shines wherever he goes, and a phenomenal era with Vice, whose sincerity shines through despite her superstar status. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for believing in us and welcoming our brand into your hearts,” the CEO said.

The female entrepreneur then recounted how her collaboration with the Phenomenal Unkabogable Superstar began, sharing, “Though Vice has only recently signed on as our ambassador, we have already been supporting her for three years, including our support for her scholarship projects for underprivileged students. Since then, we've always thought she'd be a great fit for the brand because of what she does for others.”

Then Vice and Ion both expressed their appreciation to Tan, whose company not only improves skin but also changes people's lives through charitable initiatives.

“We believe Vice and Ion perfectly represent our Belle Dolls brand. They exude confidence and motivate others to accomplish great things. Aside from their positive influence, what we admire about them is their authenticity, both with and without cameras. Finally, Vice and Ion prioritize their health,” Tan pointed out. 

Vice officially endorses Beauté Secret Stem Cell Juice Drink and Beauté Secret Collagen Juice Drink, both of which include high-quality, nutritious ingredients that promote healthy gut, enhance skin, promote healthy nails, boost mental clarity, and improve general wellness.

Ion, on the other hand, promotes Beauté Secret Black Coffee (Decaf) and Beauté Secret Healthy Coffee (Caramel Macchiato), both of which are free of toxic ingredients, sweetened with natural stevia, and enhance energy, gut health, and skin health. 

The Belle Dolls brand, which is well-known for its premium ingredients and positive feedback, hopes that more Filipinos would put their health first and make thoughtful product choices. Belle Dolls can be found on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. Both online and in-store, their products may be found all throughout the country! 

The Stars Have Arrived: NUSTAR Online Unveils Two Powerhouse Endorsers, Bea Alonzo and Andrea Brillantes

THE Philippines’ entertainment and lifestyle landscape reached a new milestone on November 7 as NUSTAR Online officially unveiled its premier luxury digital entertainment platform at the exclusive press event titled The Stars Have Arrived: NUSTAR Online Press Launch, held at Medusa at The Palace in BGC.

This celebration served as its grand introduction to the public—complete with world-class entertainment, industry partners, media, and the long-awaited official presentation of its two powerhouse endorsers, Bea Alonzo and Andrea Brillantes.

Andrea Brillantes & Bea Alonzo

The evening opened with a bold statement from NUSTAR Online Director of Public Relations, Krizia Cortez, setting the tone for the brand’s ambitious direction:

“This is only the beginning. The platform we officially unveil tonight is just the first chapter of a grander story built on exclusive rewards, transformative collaborations, and innovation that will continue to shape the future of how Filipinos connect, play, and live.” 

Guests onsite and viewers online experienced the launch in real time through NUSTAR Online: Exclusives, a new lifestyle and entertainment magazine show streamed on the official NUSTAR Online Facebook page, hosted by Anne Demesa and Jercy Raine Cruz.

Redefining Luxury Online

NUSTAR Online is raising the bar for digital entertainment in the Philippines. It brings the sophistication of world-class leisure into a modern online ecosystem; premium, seamless, and built with a global mindset.

Its foundation, however, remains proudly Filipino. The platform is powered by local creativity and ambition, with every collaboration designed to showcase Filipino excellence on a wider international stage. 

Introducing Two Icons

A highlight of the night was the first formal press presentation of the brand’s official endorsers: Bea Alonzo and Andrea Brillantes. Their partnership with NUSTAR Online is intentional and symbolic—representing the brand’s dual spirit of heritage and reinvention. 

Andrea Brillantes, Krizia Cortez & Bea Alonzo

Bea Alonzo embodies timeless elegance and credibility. When asked about her first impression of NUSTAR Online, she shared:

“I already felt that they know what they're doing, they know what the market needs. What they're offering is elevated, it feels premium but also relatable. So I think that's great. It's done with taste, class, care, and thought.”

Andrea Brillantes, meanwhile, represents a modern, confident, digital-forward generation. Her take on the brand was clear:

“I like that it's very modern. It's very classy. It's very mindful at the same time. It really encourages us to have fun but still remember to be responsible at the same time.”

Together, these two icons bridge generations of players and audiences, proof that premium entertainment can be aspirational and accessible.

Entertainment With Integrity

NUSTAR Online is firm on one of its core principles: user trust. The brand champions secure, responsible, and ethical entertainment, ensuring that players—eligible and of legal age—can enjoy a premium experience that remains fair and safe.

This is Just the Beginning

With a lineup of exclusive rewards, groundbreaking partnerships, and innovative digital experiences, NUSTAR Online is shaping the future of luxury entertainment in the country.

The stars have arrived.

And the journey into a new world of digital luxury begins.

DONNY AND KYLE CONFRONT ACTION-PACKED HEIST IN ABS-CBN’S NEW SERIES “ROJA”

KAPAMILYA stars Donny Pangilinan and Kyle Echarri deliver thrilling drama with action-packed suspense as they are embroiled in a high-profile hostage crisis in ABS-CBN’s new series “Roja.”

“Roja” will stream first on Netflix beginning November 21 (Friday) and on iWant beginning November 22 (Saturday), while the series will premiere on TV via Kapamilya Channel, A2Z, and TV5 on November 24 (Monday) at 8:45 PM. 

Viewers are invited to a thrilling vacation getaway at the exclusive La Playa Roja island resort where head chef Liam (Donny) and security team member Olsen (Kyle) play former best friends turned rivals as their solid brotherhood is torn apart by betrayal and jealousy. Additionally, Maymay Entrata plays the role of Luna, Liam’s sous chef and best friend.

What was once an inseparable bond between the two turns sour when Liam discovers that his father (Raymond Bagatsing) is having an affair with a younger woman (Yassi Pressman), which Olsen knew about all along but chose to keep it a secret. 

Thrust in the middle of Liam and Olsen’s faltering friendship are Liam’s parents and resort owners, played by Raymond and Lorna Tolentino, and Olsen’s mother (Janice De Belen), who all have a deep relationship with the two boys despite their ongoing conflict.

Behind the paradise-esque vibes that the resort has to offer, chaos and danger will ensue when a hostage-taking crisis unfolds led by the characters of Yassi and Joel Torre, together with a group of unidentified armed individuals with a hidden agenda. No one will be spared from the hostile takeover as resort staff and VIP guests are all held captive.

When individuals are killed one-by-one by the hostage-takers, Liam and Olsen will be forced to confront their misunderstanding and put their combat skills to the test in order to save themselves and their families.

Can Liam and Olsen find a way to resolve their conflict? Who will be able to survive the deadly hostage-taking?

“Roja” also stars Sandy Andolong, Robert Seña, Nikki Valdez, Cris Villanueva, Zia Grace, Bernard Palanca, Marc Abaya, Gello Marquez, Harvey Bautista, Lou Yanong, Kobie Brown, Benedict Cua, Iñigo Jose, Maika Rivera, AC Bonifacio, Emilio Daez, Xilhouete, Kai Montinola, Rubi Rubi, Sophie Reyes, Rikki Mae Davao, Inka Magnaye, Vangie Castillo, Levi Ignacio, Floyd Tena, Rans Rifol, Igi Boy Flores, and Raven Molina.

The series is directed by Lawrence Fajardo, Rico Navarro, Andoy Ranay, and Raymund Ocampo. 

Catch the premiere of “Roja” at 8:45 PM on Netflix (November 21), iWant (November 22), and on Kapamilya Channel, A2Z, TV5, and Kapamilya Online Live (November 24). Viewers outside of the Philippines can watch on The Filipino Channel (TFC) on cable and IPTV.

For updates, follow @abscbnpr on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, or visit corporate.abs-cbn.com/newsroom.

KIM AND PAULO GET ENTANGLED IN WEB OF LIES AND SECRETS IN ABS-CBN’S MYSTERY ROMANCE “THE ALIBI”

HOW much are you willing to risk in order to conceal your darkest secrets?

 

ABS-CBN stars, Kim Chiu and Paulo Avelino, gamble on love and lies as they mark their highly-anticipated return to Prime Video with a chilling murder-mystery romance entitled “The Alibi,” which will start streaming tonight (November 7).

 

After the success of their hit Prime Video series “Linlang,” Kim and Paulo will now take on daring new characters that harbor deep, dark secrets. 

PAULO AVELINO & KIM CHIU

 

Kim plays Stella, a seductive escort and the sole provider of her broken family. Her already miserable life will become even more complicated when she accidentally crosses paths with Vincent (Paulo), the heir to one of the most influential digital news empires in the country. 

 

Their indecent encounter is nothing short of twisted when it is revealed that Vincent is currently the prime suspect of a high-profile murder investigation of his rival, Walter (Sam Milby). In a desperate attempt to save his tarnished reputation, Vincent strikes a million peso deal with Stella to pose as his alibi.

PAULO AVELINO & KIM CHIU

 

As the two strangers enter an unconventional entanglement that is shrouded with mystery, the search for the truth will spiral into a dangerous spectacle when hidden agendas arise and each suspect’s morals are questioned. 

SOFIA ANDRES, SAM MILBY, ZSA ZSA PADILLA & JOHN ARCILLA

 

“The Alibi” features a stellar cast that includes John Arcilla, Zsa Zsa Padilla, Sofia Andres, Irma Adlawan, Rafael Rosell, Robbie Jaworski, Angelina Cruz, Alyanna Angeles, Alma Moreno, PJ Endrinal, Lotlot Bustamante, Ian de Leon, Romnick Sarmenta, Enzo Osorio, Ayesha Bajeta, Thou Reyes, Alora Sasam, Marvin Yap, Johaira Omar, Yesh Burce, and Kim Tubiano.

 

The series is directed by acclaimed directors Onat Diaz, Jojo Saguin, and FM Reyes, and under the production of ABS-CBN’s Dreamscape Entertainment.

ROBBIE JAWORSKI & ANGELINA CRUZ

 

Dive into the dark secrets in “The Alibi,” now streaming exclusively on Prime Video. A new episode drops weekly in the Philippines and over 240 countries and territories.

 

For updates, follow @abscbnpr on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, or visit  corporate.abs-cbn.com/newsroom.