That spirit took center stage on August 11 at the store’s The Infinity branch, as Makimura Ramen Bar hosted its Appreciation Day for influencers and media partners—an intimate gathering celebrating the people who have helped share the brand’s story and connect it with an ever-growing community of diners. Known for its budget-friendly take on Japanese casual dining, Makimura Ramen Bar has built a loyal following with its selection of authentic ramen, specialty sushi maki, and satisfying small plates. Inspired by Japan’s traditional yatai—the lively outdoor food stalls that have long been part of Japanese street-food culture—the brand has transformed that casual, welcoming spirit into a dining concept that continues to expand across Luzon, with Pampanga serving as its home base.

But the event was not simply a look back at how far Makimura has come. It was also a glimpse into what lies ahead.

A New Chapter: Yakiniku 88

One of the highlights of the celebration was the unveiling of Yakiniku 88, a new dining concept that promises an Unlimited Japanese Grill Experience and is set to open this August.

Owner Vickee Navallo Dela Cruz-Ong personally shared the exciting announcement, giving guests a first look at the brand’s newest venture. With Yakiniku 88, the team hopes to bring the same accessible and enjoyable approach that has made Makimura a favorite to an entirely new Japanese dining experience. For Dela Cruz-Ong, the success of the new concept will ultimately be measured by the people who have supported Makimura from the beginning. “I hope that our loyal customers will love and embrace this new restaurant the same way as Makimura Ramen.”

The sentiment captures what has always been at the heart of the brand: creating Japanese-inspired dining experiences that feel welcoming, satisfying, and accessible to a wide range of diners.

Bringing Makimura Home

As part of its continuing effort to make its offerings more accessible, Makimura Ramen Bar has also introduced another convenient option for its customers: the Ramen To Go, now available at all its branches.

Designed for ramen lovers who want to enjoy the experience at home, the take-out kit extends the brand’s casual Japanese dining concept beyond the restaurant table—making it easier to recreate a comforting bowl of ramen wherever the day takes you.

For Makimura, the journey is far from over. If anything, this appreciation day offered a delicious preview of what comes next.

The AuroraPH program aims to narrow energy gaps through solar power systems in last-mile schools, enabling meaningful digital learning and displacing kerosene lamps which were once used to light the way

With installed solar power systems, learners and teachers gained access to the internet and multimedia learning tools, empowering schools with stronger Information and Communications Technology (ICT) capacity.

Six previously unenergized schools in the province were prioritized, namely, Ampucao Elementary School in Ampucao, Itogon; Bakian Guinawan Elementary School in Sitio Bakian Guinawan, Ekip, Bokod; Awing Elementary School in Sitio Awing, Lusod, Kabayan; Labney Primary School in Sitio Labney, Ansagan, Tuba; Piminggan Elementary School in Ansagan, Tuba; and Marcelo Marquez National High School, also in Ansagan, Tuba.

Both students and teachers can now easily conduct research and use ICT tools. Due to the project, stronger engagement among learners has also been observed.

“We recognize the challenges communities face in education, and we are dedicated to ensuring every learner has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed,” Jowell Ann Cruz, AFI Impact Lead for Education, said as he emphasized the broader goal of the program. “With reliable power and internet connectivity, classrooms become spaces of endless possibilities—where students can explore, connect, and dream without limits.”

“AuroraPH helps improve learning conditions in far-flung areas one school at a time,” added Noreen Vicencio, First Vice President and General Manager for Hydro Operations at Aboitiz Renewables. “Behind every connection, a student learns, a teacher innovates, and a community grows. Seeing students engage confidently with digital tools and teachers explore new ways of teaching demonstrates the power of connectivity and collaboration.”

Aboitiz Renewables operates nine run-of-river hydropower plants in Benguet through its hydropower arm Hedcor.

With six schools now energized, AuroraPH is helping lay the groundwork for expanding sustainable power, connectivity, and digital learning opportunities to last-mile schools across the Philippines—empowering students and teachers to thrive, innovate, and lead in a connected world.

Founded by proud Kapampangan entrepreneur Suzette Simon, Chez Suzette blends French sophistication with the warmth of home cooking. The name itself—French for “at home”—echoes the spirit of the Freeport: a place where global standards meet local pride.

“This is more than a restaurant. It’s a homecoming,” said Clark Development Corporation (CDC) President and CEO Atty. Agnes VST Devanadera, who led the groundbreaking ceremony alongside Simon and key CDC officials. “Your success abroad is now part of Clark’s story. That gives us pride.”

The arrival of Chez Suzette signals Clark’s readiness to host global executives, discerning travelers, and culinary explorers. With its artisan wine bar, specialty coffee, and gourmet French dishes, the restaurant adds depth to Clark’s growing reputation as a lifestyle enclave—one shaped by world-class infrastructure, international connectivity, and a thriving MICE industry.

For Simon, the moment was deeply personal. “We worked hard for this vision in Singapore. Now, bringing it home to Pampanga, we’re honored and grateful,” she shared.

Expected to open between February and March 2026, Chez Suzette joins a growing list of premium establishments redefining Clark’s urban experience. It’s a space where fine wine meets the warmth of a family table, and where the Kapampangan palate welcomes the world.

The capsule-laying ceremony gathered key figures from Chez Suzette Phils., Inc. (CSPI) and CDC, including Jonathan Tingaud, CSPI Food and Beverage Director; Edward Mangulabnan, Corporate Secretary; and CDC officials Thelma Ocampo, AVP for Business Development; Elenita Lorenzo, Tourism Promotions Division Manager; Astrud Aguinaldo, Communications Division Manager; and Maricris Gepte, Investment Promotions Division I Manager.

With every detail, from wine bar to warm table, Chez Suzette brings a new flavor to Clark’s lifestyle promise. It’s a toast to homegrown excellence, to the Kapampangan spirit, and to a Freeport that welcomes the world not just with infrastructure, but with heart.

Park, pop, and plug your e-Vehicle easily at SM City Pampanga’s EV 7.4kW chargers which supports e-Vehicles with Type 2 connectors.

The charging station is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. And the good news is, charging your e-Vehicle at SM is FREE! Just head straight to Parking B near French Baker and Pizza Hut Mall Entrance to get your car battery fully charged. And while you wait, you can shop, dine, and be entertained at SM City Pampanga.

SM Supermalls is the first mall chain to establish in-mall e-Vehicle charging sites in the Philippines and has created the PH’s biggest chain of e-Vehicle charging stations nationwide. By expanding infrastructure for EV owners, SM Supermalls is able to advance its Zero Emissions agenda, helping decrease carbon footprint while addressing air pollution concerns all over the country.

Gyeongseong Creature returns with an enthralling second season, extending its narrative from the tumultuous spring of 1945 to the bustling streets of 2024 Seoul. This continuation, set against the backdrop of monstrous creations born from human greed, further entwines the fates of Jang Tae-sang and Yoon Chae-ok.

Season 2 takes a dramatic leap through time, as revealed in the intriguing post-credit footage of Season 1. In this pivotal scene, a character called “Ho-jae”, bearing a striking resemblance to Jang Tae-sang, turns to reveal a mysterious scar, igniting a flurry of questions about his identity and the scar’s origin. This moment is a gateway to the series’ time travel element, transitioning the setting to Seoul of 2024. The released stills amplify the mystery, capturing Chae-ok at a critical juncture and suggesting a season brimming with enigmatic events and connections. Director Chung Dong-yoon shares his vision for this new chapter, stating, “Season 2 presents a story with a completely different charm. The change in space and time period will provide a clear distinction, offering an expanded universe feel.”

Season 1 captivated audiences worldwide with its unique blend of period drama and fantastical elements, earning high praise from international media. CNN hailed it as “[it] deserves to be a monster hit,” while TIME magazine noted, “it is also about the world we live in today.” Just 3 days after release, Season 1 gained a spot in the Global TOP 10(Non-English) to rise up to the third place and appear in the TOP 10 list of 69 countries across the globe including Brazil, Japan, Singapore, France, and Australia.

The suspense around the series is further fueled by the cliffhanger from Season 1’s finale and the anticipation of how the characters’ narratives will evolve. Actors, including Park Seo-jun and Han So-hee, have hinted at the deeper character developments and emotional depth of the upcoming season, continuing its legacy as a global sensation and delving into the mysteries of time travel and destiny.

Gyeongseong Creature Season 2, set to premiere exclusively on Netflix, is all poised to reveal a larger, more dynamic story.

Speaking before a multi-sectoral crowd last October 10 at the Heroes Hall in this city, Mayor Vilma Caluag reported on her administration’s priority programs under her development agenda which aims to uplift the lives of Fernandinos with much emphasis on universal health care and delivery of social services.

In her address, Mayor Caluag elaborated on her achievements as the fulfillment of her promises made during the 2022 mayoral campaign.

THE FERNANDINO DIALYSIS CENTER

Topping this list of promises delivered within the first 100 days of her administration was the fulfillment of Caluag’s brainchild, the Fernandino Dialysis Center. Established through a public-private partnership between the City Government and the Luzon Medical System, the facility was officially inaugurated last October 6 with 25 hemodialysis machines for the use of indigent-Fernandino patients at no cost to the city.

The enrollment of beneficiaries per barangay has begun with the City Health Office initially identifying 219 patients.

SOCIAL SERVICES AND THE KAYABE KArd

Acting under her principle of inclusivity, Mayor Caluag continues to intensify the City Government’s social services program. She revealed that the City Government, through the City Health and Social Welfare and Development offices, renders financial assistance to Fernandinos needing chemotherapy and monetary support to senior citizens with their hospital bills and medical needs.

The mayor has expressed her wish to give free chemotherapy to Fernandino cancer patients as well as free hospitalization to senior citizens which she hopes will realize in the near future with the support of Councilor Dr. Ayzel Macalino, the CHO, and the CSWD.

Caluag also reported that under the city’s social services program, 466 indigent Fernandinos received medical assistance, 411 with burial, and 51 with funeral assistance, while 17 assistive devices, particularly hearing aids and wheelchairs, were given to Persons With Disabilities.

She further said that under the Local Social Pensioners Program, 1,500 Fernandinos currently receive subsistence assistance, while 750 indigents were helped through the city’s local Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps).

The Fernandino youth development remains in focus, with a total of 4,158 pre-schoolers presently enrolled under the Early Childhood Care and Development program.

A Youth Summit is also being organized to identify the actual needs of young Fernandinos, which will serve as the basis for formulating appropriate and relevant plans and programs for the City Government.

The Fernandino KAYABE KArd, deemed another major priority, shall become the official tool for accessing the City’s social services. The mayor revealed that extensive data gathering goes on through the CSWD and the Community Affairs Division to ensure the coverage of all Fernandino citizens. The initial batch of Kayabe Kards has already been distributed to Fernandinos categorized under “citizens with chronic diseases” – Hemodialysis patients. As of this writing, 13,522 Fernandinos are already registered under the program.

EDUCATION

As a concrete example to demonstrate the principle of inclusivity of her administration, Mayor Caluag shared her experience with a Fernandino youth who appealed for entry into the City College of San Fernando (CCSFP) despite not having met the institution’s grade qualifications. This spurred her to talk with CCSFP President and Administrator Atty. Gloria Bañas regarding a policy that would consider admission of average though equally qualified and deserving students. Mayor Caluag now takes pride in having opened up the City College to help more Fernandino youth. The enrollment of about 1,500 students this year has more than doubled the previous 700+ scholars in the past.

Quality of education in the city will now be boosted with Mayor Caluag’s pledge to give free laptops and internet service to all public school teachers in San Fernando. The first batch of teaching equipment is projected to be released before the end of 2022.

EMERGENCY RESPONSE

The safety of the Fernandinos is given high priority by Mayor Caluag, who lauded the LGU’s quick response to the onslaught of Super Typhoon Karding last September 26. She reported the efforts of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (CDRRM) Council and the CDRRM Office team under Raymond del Rosario, in bringing safety through its efficient response capability and providing for over 600 affected families. She added that despite the typhoon’s Wind Signal No. 5 strength, no Fernandino was injured. The city was restored to normalcy on the day after the typhoon. It is therefore imperative, said Mayor Caluag, that the CDRRMO be provided with needed manpower, equipment, and sets of training for further capacity-building.

Flood mitigation remains in sight with the continuous cleaning and dredging of the city’s waterways.

INFRASTRUCTURE SUPPORT, LIGHTING, AND BEAUTIFICATION 

Progress has presented problems to the City, the foremost of which is traffic. During her first 100 days as city executive, Mayor Caluag tasked the City Engineer’s Office (CEO), the City General Services Office/Motorpool Division (GSO), and the City Public Order & Safety Coordinating Office (CPOSCO) to fast-track road clearing, conduct clean-up drives and install new LED lights along major thoroughfares of San Fernando to alleviate the heavy build-up of vehicles plying the city.

The CEO and GSO tallied 782 electrical works on streetlights, while the CPOSCO removed old impounded vehicles at the Dolores intersection as early as July. A highlight of these efforts is the shutting-off of the traffic light in front of Vista Mall which has been a perennial problem to motorists as it unnecessarily intercepted the smooth flow of traffic along the MacArthur Highway. The mayor acknowledged the vital role of CPOSCO Focal Person Darius Hizon in this undertaking.

All in all, 33 infrastructure projects are ongoing, while 45 more have been proposed for implementation in 2023.

THE BRIDGES AT SAN JOSE-DEL PILAR AND DELA PAZ SUR 

What remained a real problem for nine years was resolved in two weeks. It took a lady mayor to negotiate with concerned families who opted to remain in their houses that blocked the bridges’ entryways. Trusting Mayor Caluag’s promise to assist them in their need to vacate and relocate, the families left their homes confident that the mayor will keep her word. Demolition followed and the bridge now provides easy access for motorists between Barangays San Jose and Del Pilar where schools and residences are located.

A similar problem was posed by a house and a store on the DelaPaz Sur bridge, with concerned owners placing their confidence and trust in the lady mayor, resulting in an effective solution within a few days, as reported by Mayor Caluag.

INVESTMENTS, PUBLIC MARKETS, AND THE CITY MARKET PLAZA

Investment promotion is an answer to improving the city’s economy that still suffers the consequences of the pandemic. To better the entrepreneurial skills of Fernandino business owners, sets of training, seminars and conferences were spearheaded by Mayor Caluag herself through the City Investment Promotions Office and the Department of Trade and Industry.

The two public markets are subjected to regular drives to ensure the cleanliness and safety of both vendors and marketgoers.

The long-awaited operation of the old public market began with a soft opening held last September 18. This market underwent a total renovation that was completed during Mayor Caluag’s 100 days in office.

TOURISM, CHRISTMAS LIGHTING, AND THE GIANT LANTERN FESTIVAL

San Fernando is popularly known as the Christmas Capital of the Philippines. To prove this, Mayor Caluag said that with the help of the City Tourism Office, she is bent on making this year’s observance of Christmas one of the most beautiful for Fernandinos. To achieve this, in line with her inclusivity principle, the mayor called on five different Fernandino lantern makers to design and create varying lighting displays and decor along 12 locations in the city. Together with these creations is the spectacular display of lights on the grounds of the Heroes Hall that was switched on last September 23.

Free Kalesa tours along the city’s Heritage District and SM Pampanga have also been launched through the efforts of City Tourism head Ching Pangilinan and focal person for tourism Joebee Henson.

In her speech, Mayor Caluag announced having successfully negotiated for increased incentives and awards to participating barangays in the Giant Lantern Festival, considered the city’s top tourism event. She said that she raised the subsidy granted to barangays to enable each of them to come up with their creative entry to the Festival.

To conclude her SOCA, Mayor Vilma Caluag thanked everyone who contributed to her administration’s achievements during her first 100 days, acknowledging the support of the City Council led by Vice Mayor Benedict Jasper “BJ” Lagman, the department heads and focal persons of the LGU, barangay officials and all personnel of the City Government. At the same time, she vowed to work harder on the programs she has started and will continue to look for more ways to improve the lives of every Fernandino.

PHILIPPINES, October 7, 2022–Singapore, renowned for its iconic skyline, attraction on Sentosa Island, first class shopping and melting pot of Asian cultures, has been voted as one of the top 10 destinations in the world to visit according to Agoda’s Travel Optimism 2022 Survey. With so much to explore, from the famous and familiar to the hidden and unexpected, Agoda draws on its travel expertise and insights to share why Singapore is well worth the visit.

1. Influenced by a culturally diverse population, Singapore has some of the best cuisine in the region, available all day and night and suiting everyone’s budgets. From its famous local delicacies like Laksa and Chilli Crab sold in food courts and hawker centers such as Newton Food Centre or La Pa Sat, to Indian, Chinese, Malaysian, Middle Eastern and everything in between.  
2. Cool architecture. Singapore is home to some of the most iconic architecture in the region,      from architectural wonders in the bustling business district to colonial structures that embody the history and cultural diversity in the island state’s tapestry of vibrant neighbourhoods. The preserved shophouses of Chinatown or Joo Chiat, the Art Deco style of Tiong Bahru and the colonial grandeur of Singapore’s black and white houses dotted across the island, including at the shopping and eating enclave Dempsey Hill, truly reflect how the city has preserved its past while embracing the future.
3. Vibrant neighbourhoods. Singapore is rich with vibrant enclaves and cultural hives. From the likes of Little India, Chinatown, and Arab Street, a day out in any of these vivid areas will lead one on a journey of discovering vast cultural diversity. 
   • Little India: One of Singapore’s most spirited districts, this buzzing ethnic neighbourhood is peppered with spice shops, iconic flower vendors, age-old temples and a dizzying array of eateries to satisfy any hunger cravings. 
   • Chinatown: This cultural precinct offers an intoxicating blend of old and new. From traditional landmarks, sights and flavours of hawker delicacies to boundary-pushing Michelin-starred establishments and trendy bars, Chinatown will keep you busy from dusk to dawn. 
   • Arab Street: The veteran hipster hood of Singapore, Arab Street brings age-old traditions and contemporary lifestyle together in a heady blend. A true mecca for Middle Eastern foodies, this atmospheric quarter serves an array of Moroccan, Lebanese, Persian and Turkish cuisines.
4. Historical pride. Although only 57 years old, Singapore’ s long history is widely celebrated.      Museums throughout the island showcase the people and cultures that are part of its incredible journey. Cultural spots such as Peranakan Museum, the Asian Civilization Museum and Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, as well as  war museums and memorials at the Ford Factory or the Battle box at Fort Canning, all provide a glimpse into the past.  More eccentric spots like Haw Par Villa offer a journey through the richness of Chinese mythology, folklore and religious beliefs depicted in 1,000 statues and 150 giant dioramas.      
5. The Arts. For the creative, artistic and expressive minds, Singapore boasts a vibrant palette of art galleries featuring show-stopping works from local and international talent all year round. From national art hubs and cultural spaces like National Gallery Singapore, National Museum of Singapore and Art Science Museum, to boutique galleries like Degiosart Gallery and Art Blue Studio. 
6. Outdoor Adventures. There is never a dull weekend in the Lion City with a thriving recreational hive. For a dose of outdoor adventure, East Coast Park and Beach presents activities galore. Spread over a 15-kilometre stretch of beach, avid cyclists can enjoy a breezy ride or even rollerblade their way through the park and beach. Other activities include cable skiing, water sports, world-class Xtreme SkatePark, a picnic at the beach or just kick back and relax at the many restaurants, bars and cafés.
7. Idyllic islands. That’s right. Aside from the ever-popular Sentosa Island, locals and visitors alike have been exploring Lazarus Island, a C-shaped lagoon with clean white sands and crystal blue waters that draws visitors near and far to enjoy the beach while exploring the vicinity, including the nearby St. John’s Island. Keep a look out for local dolphins playing in the waves.
8. Singapore Gardens. Singapore is known as the Garden city for good reason, with wide tree lined boulevards from the airport reflecting the city’s commitment to staying green. Take a break from the bustle with a visit to the Gardens by the Bay, a horticulture showpiece that strives to both educate and wow visitors with its wide-ranging plant species seldom found in Singapore. Be sure to also check out the Supertree Observatory for a unique experience.
9. Hiking Trails. Singapore is also dotted with National Parks and Reserves that lends to its reputation as the garden city. Breathe in some fresh air and take in all that nature has to offer by hiking the Southern Ridges. This 10km trail is one of the longest walking routes in Singapore connecting Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park, the ever-popular Henderson Waves bridge, HortPark, Kent Ridge Park, and Labrador Nature Reserve. 
10. A shopping paradise. No visit to Singapore would be complete without a dose of retail therapy. Check out the designer stores in Marina Bay Sands and Orchard Road; visit the independent boutiques that line the streets of Joo Chiat or Chinatown; or take in the busy markets at Bugis or Little India that sell everything from tech to tea, clothes to ceramics, flowers and tourist gifts galore.

Make the most of your trip to the Little Red Dot by selecting from a host of choice accommodations on www.agoda.com/singaporeimagine2 and upgrade your stay by using the promo code VISITSG8 on your bookings from now until 31 March 2023.

Agoda has also partnered with Mount Faber Leisure Group, the only cable car attraction in Singapore connecting Singapore’s main island to Sentosa. Locals and visitors travelling to Sentosa can enjoy additional benefits such as 30% off Cable Car Sky Pass (Round Trip) with free upgrade to Unlimited Rides, and discounted hotel value-added services. The campaign’s booking period is from 17th October to 16th November 2022 and the stay period is from 17th October 2022 to 28th March 2023.

The long wait is almost over as Apple Premium Reseller Power Mac Center (PMC) just announced it is opening pre-orders for the highly anticipated iPhone 14 family. As in previous releases, it is packed full of perks for the faithful ones and switchers alike, and we’re looking at the comeback of the traditional midnight launch after three years.

“All year long, we’ve been saying there’s an iPhone for all. We have focused on improving accessibility by opening various platforms—both online and offline—for customers to purchase their favorite Apple devices. We also helped make it possible for all to afford the devices they want with wide payment options to choose from. Now that we are ready to offer the iPhone 14 line up, we’re confident Power Mac Center can follow through and be able to serve the very best to Filipino fans,” said Joey Alvarez, PMC Director of Product Management and Marketing.

The iPhone 14 pre-order period is from October 7 to 13, 2022 only. Participating sales channels include all Power Mac Center and The Loop branches, Web Store, Viber Store, and Shopee. Terms and conditions apply. Retail prices are as follows:

• iPhone 14 starts at P61,990, available in Blue, Midnight, PRODUCT(RED), Purple, and Starlight and 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB variants.
• iPhone 14 Plus starts at P68,990, available in Blue, Midnight, PRODUCT(RED), Purple, and Starlight and 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB variants.
• iPhone 14 Pro starts at P76,990, available in Deep Purple, Gold, Silver, and Space Black and 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB variants.
• iPhone 14 Pro Max starts at P83,990, available in Deep Purple, Gold, Silver, and Space Black and 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB variants.

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Power Mac Center is the pioneer in offering the entire Apple ecosystem in the country, with over 90 retail establishments, Mobile Care Service Centers, and PBSI Training Centers. It is celebrating the hottest tech drop of the year by offering fans and new-to-iPhone customers these exclusive treats:

Free premium accessories bundle, possible for all

PMC makes it easy to choose by offering unbeatable deals with every new iPhone purchase. It will be raffling off P14,000 worth of premium accessories to lucky pre-order participants. 28 winners will be chosen from customers who will pre-order at Power Mac Center and The Loop stores from October 7 to October 9, 2022.

Another 28 lucky names will be drawn from customers who will pre-order via <http://iphone14.powermaccenter.com/> and Viber Store from October 7, 2022 12:01 AM to October 9, 2022 11:59 PM. Winners will be announced on October 12, 2022 on Power Mac Center’s social media channels.

Just go to your preferred sales channel and follow the prompt. Web Store and Viber Store orders can be picked up at select Power Mac Center and The Loop stores and Mobile Care Service Centers nationwide.

Premium accessories for less

Every iPhone purchase entitles a customer to up to 50% off on AirPods and 10% off on Apple-branded iPhone cases, as well as 15% off on all Beats by Dr. Dre products. Meanwhile, up to 25% off can be availed on select non-Apple accessories. Participating brands include Adam Elements, Belkin, Cygnett, Just Mobile, Laut, PanzerGlass, and Switcheasy. This is valid for in-store, Web Store, and Viber Store purchases.

For Web Store purchases, only one discounted accessory is allowed at checkout. For in-store and Viber Store transactions, no limits—it’s all yours for the taking.

Exclusive Shopee deals

Pre-order via The Loop by Power Mac Center on Shopee and every iPhone 14 purchase entitles you to free shipping, up to 25% off on AirPods, 10% off on Apple-branded iPhone cases, 15% off on all Beats by Dr. Dre products, and up to 25% off on select non-Apple accessories. Offers will automatically apply for participating products. Customers who will also pre-order via The Loop by Power Mac Center on Shopee can get a free participating Apple or non-Apple premium accessory of their choice from select brands.

UpTrade to upgrade

PMC customers and iPhone users who will trade in their iPhone 13 can save up to P51,000 when they upgrade to the new iPhone 14 family. Meanwhile, iPhone 11 and iPhone 12 trade-ins will get P1,000 off on top of the trade-in value for the iPhone 14 models.

For the full details about Power Mac Center’s pre-order deals for the iPhone 14 family, go to https://bit.ly/PMCiPhone14PreOrder or watch the pre-order livestream video on Power Mac Center’s official Facebook page.

Protect Plus coverage

Alongside the start of the iPhone 14 pre-order period at Power Mac Center on October 7, 2022, the local Apple Premium Reseller is expanding the coverage of its Protect Plus offers. Protect Plus is Power Mac Center’s insurance service that extends coverage for damages not included in the standard warranty.

Those who will pre-order the iPhone 14 may enroll to any of the Protect Plus insurance plans including up to two years of coverage for accidental damage, theft, or both.

Return of the in-person midnight launch

After two years of having it online, the traditional in-person launch is back! Fans are invited to join Power Mac Center in welcoming the iPhone 14 at the flagship branch in Greenbelt 3, when midnight strikes on Friday, October 14, 2022.

Save the date, Apple fans! Customers who will line up to purchase their new iPhone 14 will get a chance to receive a starter kit with freebies worth up to P28,000 from partner brands namely Adam Elements, Anker, Belkin, PanzerGlass, Ventev, Aukey, Cygnett, Laut, Itskins, and Otterbox.

Those who went through the pre-order process are guaranteed their choice of device but will have to line up with all others at the official queue if they wish to get a premium accessory bundle.

Midnight iPhone launches have long been a tradition at PMC. Some fans line up as early as the day before the launch for the honor of being the first customer on launch day. To make the wait worthwhile, PMC fills the night with games and food and invites OPM artists to entertain the crowd. This year, the party will officially start at 9 PM on Thursday, October 13, 2022. See you there!

For more details and to be updated on news and promotions, follow Power Mac Center’s official Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and YouTube accounts.

Featuring over 100 budding and established artists, it is one of the activities in line with the celebration of the 150th Founding Anniversary of the province in May 2023.

Emphasizing art as an integral part of life, Governor Susan Yap cited the all-out support of the Capitol to local artists who want to promote and display their talent.

“I have seen the growth and changes of our province to arts and culture. I have seen how many talented people have shown and came of out of their shells. Whatever their talent, skills or contributions are in the community, I will as much as possible showcase it,” Yap said.

Aside from binding and defining the community’s identity, art became one of the coping mechanisms of the artists especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The art has given us strength and resiliency during the time of COVID. It gave our artists an outlet whether mentally or physically. Art is so important so we should not let it die. We have to continue being a patron supporting arts,” she noted.

Representing the artists in the exhibit, Melissa Yeung-Yap promoted the masterpieces of local artists and the vibrant art scene in Tarlac.

“I am super happy and proud that we have a lot of good artists here. It is so nice to see everyone’s works together. Whether you are an artist or not, you can come and appreciate the artistry and skills of our fellow Tarlaqueños.,” she said.

Tarlac Art Fair is open Wednesdays to Fridays from 9:00AM to 3:30PM, and Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00AM to 7:00PM. It will run until October 31, 2022.

Relative to this, Tarlac is set to host the Central Luzon Art Fair this month at the Bulwagang Kanlahi featuring artists from the different parts of the region.

These activities coincide with the celebration of Museums and Galleries Month with the theme, “Embracing Uncertainty: Showcasing Solidarity, Hope and Recovery”.