Frigidaire: An enduring icon for modern Filipino homes

Frigidaire PerfectMatch in action: three PureFit with Metal-Tech Cooling units blend seamlessly within one kitchen cabinet. From left: 11 cu. ft. built-in upright freezer (model: FR-PF11NBBS); 13 cu. ft. upright refrigerator (model: FR-PR13NBBS); and 12 cu. ft. bottom freezer refrigerator (model: FR-PB12NCBS).

An iconic brand is trusted not only for reliable, consistent quality, but also for ingenuity in technology and functionality.

Frigidaire—the globally trusted consumer brand that has made its mark in Filipino culture by being synonymous with “refrigerator”—ensures its enduring presence with design and technological innovations that make it more relevant than ever to Filipino families.

With its recent reintroduction to the local market, Frigidaire brings a host of features especially suited for modern interiors and living spaces:

Frigidaire's PureFit Built-In Multi-Door Refrigerator (Model: FR-BI18HBBS) features innovative PureFit Design Technology, combining a dynamic condenser and specially engineered hinges to achieve a true flush-fit installation creating a sleek, seamless look for modern kitchens.

• At the heart of Frigidaire's latest innovation is PureFit Design Technology, delivering a “no gap”  true flush-fit installation that integrates seamlessly with modern kitchen cabinetry.

Featured in the Frigidaire FR-BI18HBBS 18-cubic-foot multi-door refrigerator, PureFit Design combines a Dynamic Condenser and specially engineered hinges to keep the side walls cool, allowing for a true built-in installation. This innovative design provides up to 10% more interior storage capacity—or approximately 150 liters of additional space—while maintaining the same external footprint.

Designed with precision engineering, Frigidaire’s PureFit Built-In Multi-Door Refrigerator (Model: FR-BI18HBBS) balances slim exterior dimensions (190.2 cm H × 90.5 cm W × 59.7 cm D) with maximum spatial efficiency—delivering approximately 10% increased internal storage capacity without compromising its seamless, modern profile. 

• Perfect Match concept, a modular refrigeration system that combines the FR-PF11NBBS (All Freezer), FR-PR13NBBS (All Refrigeration), and FR-PB12NCBS (Bottom Freezer). Together, these models provide up to 36 cubic feet of total cooling storage capacity while maintaining a seamless built-in appearance.  Each unit features PureFit Design Technology, letting homeowners and designers customize premium kitchen configurations without sacrificing aesthetics or functionality.

Effortless Access, Uncompromised Vision: Engineered with a 105° wide-angle door opening, the Frigidaire PureFit built-in upright freezer (FR-PF11NBBS) and refrigerator (FR-PR13NBBS) pairing offers maximum internal visibility and seamless reach. Equipped with dynamic condenser, keeping the outer sides cool to the touch—allowing for a gapless, flush integration straight into your kitchen cabinetry.

• Frigidaire’s Metal-Tech Cooling technology is primarily comprised of a stainless steel back panel that ensures even cooling throughout the unit, maintaining consistent temperatures while reducing cool air loss and preventing frost buildup.

Compact yet powerful: Frigidaire PureFit with Metal-Tech Cooling 11 cu. ft. built-in upright freezer (model: FR-PF11NBBS) and 13 cu. ft. upright refrigerator (model: FR-PR13NBBS) combined seamlessly with PerfectMatch design technology.

• Frigidaire’s wide voltage range (160V to 260V) also offers versatility and enhanced safety to handle voltage fluctuations, ensuring stable and reliable performance even during power inconsistencies—perfect for everyday use in varying electrical conditions.

• Most importantly, Frigidaire’s i5 Inverter Technology saves up to 60 percent more energy compared to non-inverter units, while delivering more stable and efficient cooling performance—a definite advantage especially for cost-conscious and environmentally smart consumers.

“We are excited for Filipino homeowners to rediscover the same quality and excellence they have come to know of Frigidaire, with modern features and benefits for contemporary living,” says Franklin Chan of CYA Industries, the new official licensee of Frigidaire in the Philippines.  The new Frigidaire refrigeration lineup was officially introduced to dealers, business partners, members of the media, and industry stakeholders during the brand's relaunch held on April 22, 2026, at the Monet 1 & 2 Ballroom of Novotel Araneta City.

A century and a decade since the first self-contained refrigerator was introduced by Guardian Frigidaire, the brand truly lives up to its iconic status by continuously pioneering innovation worldwide, and now, bringing it to Filipino homes once again.  

vivo V80 Lite sets world record with 32-hour livestream

 

The vivo V80 Lite has set a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title after completing a 32-hour and 37-minute continuous livestream, marking a new milestone for the upcoming smartphone.

The livestream, conducted on August 11, 2026, in Chiang Mai, Thailand, earned the title of “The Longest Electronic Product Live Stream.” The V80 Lite remained operational throughout the challenge without interruption, putting its endurance through more than a full day of continuous broadcasting.

The record attempt was independently observed under GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS guidelines, with the 32-hour, 37-minute livestream providing a measurable test of how long the device could sustain an intensive, uninterrupted activity.

Southeast Asian creators put the phone to the test

The record-setting livestream brought together creators from across Southeast Asia, who took turns using and showcasing the V80 Lite throughout the challenge.

Representing four markets were Tang Makkaporn, a content creator and doctor from Thailand; Aedy Ashraf, an actor from Malaysia; Vince Domingo, founder and host of Philippine technology channel Unbox Diaries; and Tuấn Ngọc, a technology creator from Vietnam.

Beyond the livestream itself, the creators used the smartphone during activities around Chiang Mai, including navigation, photography, gaming, and calls. Their participation gave the endurance challenge a regional dimension, bringing together creators with different audiences and areas of expertise around one extended test.

More than 32 hours on the clock

The challenge continued through day and night as the V80 Lite maintained the livestream for 32 hours and 37 minutes before completing the record attempt.

The achievement comes ahead of the smartphone's official launch in the Philippines, where the V80 Lite will introduce vivo’s 10,000mAh BlueVolt Battery, the largest battery capacity ever offered by vivo globally.

“Setting a world record is ultimately about the test itself — how long the device can keep going and whether it can complete the challenge without interruption,” said Liu Lu, Brand Marketing Director of vivo Philippines.

“We wanted to put the V80 Lite through a demanding, measurable endurance challenge, and 32 hours and 37 minutes gave us a clear result that people can see for themselves," she added.

The vivo V80 Lite will officially launch in the Philippines on October 4 at the Market! Market! by Ayala Malls.

Filipinos can follow vivo Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X, or visit the vivo website and vivo Store app for the latest updates on the V80 Lite, including launch details and availability

vivo V80 Lite challenges the look of big-battery phones

A 10,000mAh battery may be the headline feature of the upcoming vivo V80 Lite, but it does not define the phone’s physical design. Set to launch in the Philippines on October 4, 2026, the smartphone pairs vivo’s largest battery capacity globally with a slim profile, premium finishes, and an expansive display, challenging the usual bulky look associated with large-capacity batteries. The V80 Lite will be available in three colorways — Afterglow Pink, Emerald Green, and Dawn Black — each with a distinct finish. Afterglow Pink features a Chromatic Meteor Finish that creates a subtle, iridescent effect across the surface. Golden light moves across pink waves and blush-toned hues, with the finish changing as the phone is tilted. Emerald Green takes its cue from raw emerald, using a deep, understated green designed to evoke the appearance of a natural gemstone. Dawn Black combines a deep base with a cool-toned metallic sheen, creating a restrained finish reminiscent of the first light breaking through darkness. The design continues at the back with a floating crystal camera module, where the lenses appear to sit beneath a crystal-clear layer. A precision-machined metal ring frames the module and catches light as the phone moves. Despite housing a 10,000mAh BlueVolt Battery, the V80 Lite is also designed to maintain a streamlined appearance. Its 1.35mm ultra-slim bezels help maximize the viewing area around its 6.83-inch display, resulting in a 94.47% screen-to-body ratio that brings content closer to the edges of the screen. “Large battery capacity and refined design do not have to be opposing priorities,” said Liu Lu, Brand Marketing Director of vivo Philippines. “With the V80 Lite, we wanted to give users the freedom of a 10,000mAh battery while creating a device they would also want to carry and use every day. From the finishes and camera module to the slim bezels, every element was designed to balance function with a premium look.” The result is a smartphone that puts substantial battery capacity into a form designed for everyday carry, while giving users a choice of finishes that range from iridescent pink to deep green and understated black. The vivo V80 Lite will officially launch in the Philippines on October 4, 2026, at 10 am in Market! Market! by Ayala Malls. Follow vivo Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X, or visit the vivo website and vivo Store app for updates and launch details.

Taptap Send and GCash International expand easier, more accessible remittances for Filipinos in Bahrain

For many OFWs, sending money home helps cover everyday needs, from household expenses and education to healthcare and savings. To make remittances more accessible to Filipinos in Bahrain, Taptap Send has expanded its international network through a partnership with GCash, the Philippines’ #1 finance superapp and largest cashless ecosystem.

The partnership offers OFWs in Bahrain a seamless way to send money directly to GCash accounts. For a limited time, users can enjoy zero transfer fees (standard foreign exchange rates still apply).

The collaboration is part of broader efforts by GCash to work with accredited international partners to provide Filipinos abroad with safer, more convenient ways to send money home. Beyond Bahrain, the service will expand to the United States, including Hawaii (excluding Las Vegas), Canada, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, Australia, and select European countries including Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, Mayotte, the Netherlands, Portugal, Réunion, Slovakia, Spain, Romania, Denmark, Norway, Czechia, Hungary, and Sweden.

“Our partnership with GCash allows us to make it even easier for overseas Filipinos to send money home through a trusted digital platform. By offering convenient transfers, competitive exchange rates, and zero transaction fees in supported corridors, we want to help OFWs make every remittance count and stay connected to the people who matter most,” said Faye Sta. Ana-Corpuz, Taptap Send head of the Philippines Growth and SEA Expansion.

The partnership also highlights the importance of using official and accredited remittance channels, which provide greater transaction security and traceability while reducing risks associated with unaccredited or difficult-to-trace intermediaries.

“At GCash, we recognize the important role remittances play in helping Filipino families manage their everyday needs and build a more secure financial future. By working with trusted international partners like Taptap Send, we are expanding access to safe, convenient, and reliable ways for Filipinos abroad to send money home while strengthening their connection to the Philippines,” shared GCash International vice president for international payments, Carlos Bauza.

For overseas Filipinos in Bahrain, sending money to GCash through TapTap Send is straightforward:

1. Open the Taptap Send app and select Philippines as the destination

2. Choose GCash as the delivery method

3. Enter the recipient’s registered GCash mobile number; the number should start with a Philippine (+63) or Bahrain (+973) 

4. Ensure the number is correct and complete the transaction

*Zero transfer fees are automatically applied; forex rates apply. This offer is available for a limited time.

The collaboration reflects the growing role of digital financial services in helping overseas Filipinos stay connected with their families and communities in the Philippines, while making cross-border remittances more accessible, secure, and convenient.

To know more about Taptap Send, visit www.taptapsend.com.

For more information on GCash, please visit www.gcash.com.

vivo X300 Ultra puts telephoto imaging to test at NBA House

How quickly can you spot a subject, frame it, and capture it from a distance? At the Philippines’ first-ever NBA House, vivo turned that question into a fast-paced imaging challenge with the vivo X300 Ultra.

Held from August 29 to 30 at SPACE at One Ayala, NBA House Philippines brought basketball fans together for an immersive celebration of the sport and its culture, spanning basketball, fashion, music, and entertainment. The two-day event also featured special appearances from basketball icons Jason Kidd, Lauren Jackson, and Tony Parker.

As one of the event partners, vivo brought the vivo X300 Ultra to the heart of the experience through the vivo Imaging Challenge, giving participants the opportunity to put its telephoto imaging capabilities to the test.

Participants were given specific items to capture based on the host’s instructions, with only a limited amount of time to find their targets and take the shot using the vivo X300 Ultra paired with its 400mm Equivalent vivo ZEISS Telephoto Extender Gen 2 Ultra.

With a busy event environment around them, participants had to stay alert and react quickly. They had to identify the right subject, adjust their framing, and capture it from where they were standing, all within seconds.

The challenge turned smartphone photography into an experience that felt more like a game. Instead of simply trying out a camera at a display booth, participants had to put the device to use while navigating the excitement and movement of NBA House.

The activity also gave participants a firsthand look at how extended telephoto imaging can be useful in large, crowded spaces.

The vivo X300 Ultra with the telephoto extender kit allows users to frame distant subjects without needing to physically move closer. This can be particularly useful when photographing moments at sporting events, concerts, or other busy venues where space and distance can make it difficult to get the desired composition.

For participants, the experience was about making quick decisions: spotting what they needed to capture, finding the right frame, and trusting the device to help bring their subject closer.

By putting the X300 Ultra into the hands of NBA House attendees, vivo turned its imaging technology into something participants could actively experience rather than simply observe.

Beyond the challenge, vivo also made sure participants had something to remember the experience by. Those who took part received exclusive prizes, including a puffer vag, X80 Bluetooth speaker, and vivo Air Buds.

The activation added another way for fans to engage with NBA House, where basketball culture extended beyond the game itself. With legends, fans, creators, and enthusiasts gathered under one roof, the event became a place to celebrate the sport while creating moments of their own.

For vivo, the experience was a natural extension of its focus on mobile imaging, helping people get closer to the moments they want to capture, even when they are happening from a distance.

The experience at NBA House showed how telephoto imaging can make it easier to capture moments from a distance, giving fans another way to get closer to the action and create memories of their own.

The vivo X300 Ultra is now available for Php 109,999 at vivo concept stores nationwide and the vivo e-store. Follow vivo Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X, or visit the official vivo website to stay updated.

Eastern Strengthens Commitment to Mindanao with Davao Experience Center, Business Tech Roadshows

 

 

Eastern Communications executives and local industry leaders mark the launch of the company’s Experience Center in Davao City. From left: Mr. Arvin Barcena, General Affairs & Admin Head of Eastern Communications; Mr. Jed Estanislao, Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer of Eastern Communications; Mr. Will Tormis, Davao Tourism Officer; Mr. Edsel Paglinawan, Chief Revenue and Innovation Officer of Eastern Communications; Mr. Eric Manalastas, Vice President of Davao Chamber; Atty. Aileen Regio, Co-Coordinator of Eastern Communications; Mr. Jaeson Evangelista, Co-Coordinator of Eastern Communications; Mr. Miguel Dominguez, President of the General Santos Chamber; Mr. Tony Peralta, Deputy of the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) Davao.

           Eastern Communications continues to build on its presence in Mindanao with the launch of it Experience Center in Davao City and sustained participation in key regional industry conferences, reinforcing the company's commitment to the region's growing business and digital landscape.

As emerging hub such as Davao and Cagayan de Oro continue to gain momentum, Eastern Communications has strengthened its connectivity infrastructure and customer engagement platforms across these developing cities. This builds on the company's existing operations in the region and aligns its growth with Mindanao's own economic trajectory.

Bringing Eastern's Connectivity to Davao

Launched last August 10, 2026, Eastern Communications’ Experience Center in Davao located at Damosa IT Park, Lanang, Davao City serves as a one-stop destination for connectivity, digital transformation, and enterprise support in Mindanao. The center is designed around the customer journey, bringing the brand to life through interactive experiences that show how Eastern's technology and connectivity solutions help businesses and communities move forward.

"Opening our Experience Center in Davao is our way of bringing Eastern closer to the people and businesses that continue to drive progress in Mindanao. We believe that the strongest connections are built not only through technology, but through being present, accessible, and committed to the communities we serve," said Eastern Communication's Co-Coordinator, Attorney Aileen Regio.

"Davao is a city of opportunity, and we believe businesses have a role to play in helping that opportunity grow. By providing reliable connectivity, enabling local enterprises, and giving back to the community, Eastern hopes to contribute to a more connected and thriving Davao," said Eastern Communications' Co-Coordinator, Mr. Jaeson Evangelista.

As part of its commitment to the communities it serves, Eastern Communications also extended support to families affected by the earthquake that struck General Santos City and surrounding areas in June 2026. The company turned over a donation to the General Santos City Chamber of Commerce & Industry to help address immediate needs and support ongoing recovery efforts.

Eastern Communications’ Co-Coordinators, Attorney Aileen Regio and Mr. Jaeson Evangelista,

alongside Eastern representatives and representatives from the General Santos City Chamber of Commerce & Industry, as they turnover a donation for the families affected by the recent earthquakes in SOCCSKSARGEN.

Beyond the physical space, the Davao center reflects Eastern's broader commitment to meaningful customer experiences, innovation, and dependable connectivity. It gives visitors in Mindanao a firsthand look at the company's capabilities and its evolving role in the region.

From Industry Conversations to Localized Digital Solutions

Eastern’s presence in Davao and across Mindanao reflects a deliberate approach to growing alongside the region—not just by bringing connectivity to emerging markets and creating a center for clients and partners to witness first-hand Eastern’s services, but by listening to the businesses and communities that drive them.

Last August 12, Eastern Communication’s Chief Revenue and Innovation Officer, Edsel Paglinawan, shared his invaluable insights on empowering local governments through innovative digital solutions, reliable connectivity, cybersecurity, and smarter public service delivery at the 18th NICP National ICT Summit 2026 held on August 12, 2026, at the Tagum City Hall Atrium, Tagum City, Davao del Norte.

“Digital transformation is not simply about adopting new technologies—it is about enabling local governments to deliver better, faster, and more responsive services to the communities they serve. With reliable connectivity, strong cybersecurity, and smarter digital solutions, we can help build LGUs that are more resilient, efficient, and ready for the future,” said Paglinawan.

 

Eastern Communications' Chief Revenue and Innovation Officer Edsel Paglinawan presents at the 18th NICP National ICT Summit, discussing the importance of building future-ready digital foundations for LGUs to adapt and thrive in an increasingly digital world.

On the same day, Eastern Communications’ Segment SME and Consumer Segment Marketing Head, Suzel Lim, presented at the 35th Mindanao Business Conference in The Atrium at Limketkai Mall, Cagayan de Oro, tackling Eastern’s plan of action in supporting Mindanao SMEs.

 

Eastern Communications' SME and Consumer Segment Marketing Head Suzel Lim speaking at the 35th Mindanao Business Conference in Cagayan de Oro, on growing with confidence in a digital-first market with the help of ICT solutions.

“Mindanao’s SMEs are at the heart of the region’s growth. For Eastern, we want to go beyond providing connectivity. We want to provide businesses with the technology, solutions, and support they need to grow with confidence and seize new opportunities,” said Lim.

These industry conversations allow Eastern to move beyond simply offering connectivity. By listening to what businesses need, the company can co-create solutions that are relevant, practical, and built for the region’s unique digital landscape. 

Eastern will continue this engagement at the Mindanao ICT Conference (MindaCon) in Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur, on November 9-11, 2026. The conference will gather ICT leaders, policymakers, and innovators to discuss Mindanao's digital transformation across cybersecurity, smart cities, digital jobs, digital governance, and innovation. Eastern will contribute insights on strengthening digital infrastructure and cybersecurity resilience for LGUs and enterprises in the region.

Investing in Mindanao's Growth, Connecting Its Future 

As Davao continues to emerge as a strategic hub for business, innovation, and economic growth, Eastern sees an opportunity to grow alongside the businesses and communities that call Mindanao home. The company's initiatives in the region reflect more than an expansion of its physical footprint. They reflect its confidence in Mindanao's potential and its commitment to helping the region's businesses and communities connect, innovate, and thrive.

vivo introduces OriginOS 7 globally

vivo has officially introduced OriginOS 7 globally, its latest operating system designed to deliver a smarter, smoother, and more intuitive smartphone experience.

Introduced in Shanghai, China on September 21, OriginOS 7 brings together improved performance, flexible multitasking, cross-device connectivity, personal AI capabilities, and deeper customization to help users get more done with less friction.

“Last year, vivo OriginOS 6 set a new standard for smoothness, design, and AI. With OriginOS 7, we're taking that standard even further to deliver mastery of smoothness, smartly redefined,” said Colling Cheung, OriginOS Global Product Planning Director.

Faster performance for smoother everyday use

OriginOS 7 introduces the next-generation Origin Smooth Engine, which brings improvements to graphics computation, memory management, and system scheduling.

Through Ultra-Core Computing, processing resources are dynamically allocated based on demand to help maintain responsiveness during demanding activities such as gaming, multitasking, and extended video sessions.

According to vivo’s internal testing, OriginOS 7 reduces app cold start time by 10% and improves app page switching by 11%. Memory Fusion enables 60% greater memory reclamation and can free up to 25 GB of additional storage on a 256 GB device under vivo’s test conditions.

Meanwhile, Dual Rendering improves rendering efficiency by 14.4%, supporting smoother animations and richer visuals.

Designed for long-term performance, OriginOS 7 has also undergone a 72-month anti-aging test in vivo labs, reflecting vivo’s efforts to maintain a smooth experience over years of daily use.

Multitask across five apps without losing your flow

For users who rarely do just one thing at a time, OriginOS 7 brings Origin Workbench, a new multitasking experience that lets users coordinate up to five active applications within a unified task space.

Whether working on a document while checking notes, reviewing content while messaging, or managing several parts of a creative task, Origin Workbench is designed to make switching between activities feel more seamless.

Instead of treating every task as a separate screen, OriginOS 7 brings them together in one space—helping users stay focused while doing more.

Make every swipe and transition feel more natural

OriginOS 7 also introduces Origin Animation, bringing physics-inspired motion to everyday smartphone interactions.

Fluid Motion allows interface elements to stretch, bounce, and merge based on touch movement, while Spring Animation applies consistent motion across system components, apps, and in-page elements.

With Seamless Interaction, scrolling is also designed to feel more fluid across supported system and third-party applications.

Together, these features make everyday actions such as swiping, scrolling, and switching between screens feel more natural and responsive.

Connect your vivo phone across your everyday devices

OriginOS 7 expands cross-ecosystem connectivity, allowing users to integrate their vivo smartphones with devices they already use.

Supported Apple Watch connectivity enables notifications and synchronization of selected workout and health data with the Origin Health app. AirPods can also connect with battery information through Origin Island and support for Spatial Audio, subject to device and regional availability.

Through vivo Office Kit, supported vivo smartphones can connect with iPad, Mac, and Windows PCs for task handoffs, real-time note synchronization, and cross-screen file transfers.

OriginOS 7 also brings selected iCloud content into vivo File Manager, allowing users to browse, upload, and download supported photos and files directly within the system.

Let Jovi help get everyday tasks done

OriginOS 7 introduces Jovi, vivo’s personal AI agent designed to assist with tasks across connected smartphones and PCs.

Through vivo Office Kit, Jovi can retrieve files from a connected computer, summarize information, and deliver relevant takeaways to a smartphone. Users can also schedule recurring tasks, such as compiling reports or organizing files, depending on feature availability.

For everyday productivity, Snap Note uses intelligent structural recognition to turn photos of whiteboards, handwritten notes, and presentation slides into editable, formatted documents with a single capture.

Through Jovi Security, autonomous actions are recorded, while key steps require direct user authorization, giving users greater visibility and control over AI-assisted tasks.

Make your smartphone experience your own

OriginOS 7 introduces new ways to personalize the lock screen, home screen, and Always-On Display.

Wiggle Theme transforms personal photos into interactive surfaces that respond to touch, while Glint Theme uses gyroscope sensing to create dynamic light and shadow effects as the device moves.

With StickIt, users can create layered compositions from photos and Live Photos across supported screens. 

Meanwhile, Pet Pals introduces interactive companion themes that respond to device movement, charging states, music playback, and the progression of day and night.

From the way the phone performs to the way it looks and responds, OriginOS 7 gives users more freedom to shape an experience that fits their individual style.

Availability

The OriginOS 7 will be available on the vivo X500 Series, as well as new X Fold and V Series devices.

Availability and supported features may vary depending on the device, software version, and market. Further details on Philippines availability will be announced by vivo through its official channels. 

Follow vivo Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X, or visit the vivo website and vivo Store app for official announcements.