Championing strength, safety, and smarter choices in every Filipino home

Uratex Monoblock, the trusted Filipino plastic furniture brand, returns stronger than ever this year with a bold new chapter of its “Bawal ang Marupok” campaign. Expanding beyond chairs, this year’s movement casts a wider spotlight on furniture that stands the test of time—championing resilience, safety, and the importance of making wiser decisions in everyday life.

The “Free Taste” video highlights everyday temptations and positions Uratex Monoblock as the smart and reliable choice. Link of

Kicking off the campaign is the witty and relatable video “Free Taste,” which tackles one of the most universally Filipino experiences—giving in to temptation. The ad follows a father and son inside a grocery store, where they come across stalls offering free taste samples. As they try one sample after another, they both give in to temptation and eventually buy the products they didn’t plan on purchasing. It’s a humorous and all-too-familiar scenario that ends with the now-iconic reminder: #BawalAngMarupok—a gentle nudge to be wise, practical, and intentional with our everyday choices.

 

The “Free Taste” video highlights everyday temptations and positions Uratex Monoblock as the smart and reliable choice.

The “Bawal ang Marupok” Standard: Smart, Strong, and Stylish

With over 30 years of experience in Filipino homes, Uratex Monoblock continues to set the gold standard for quality—this time ushering in a new generation of innovation and strength. The brand proudly stands as the first local manufacturer of blow-mold products for chairs and tables, marking a significant milestone in the Philippine furniture industry.

Uratex Monoblock also remains the only local plastic furniture line to receive the Level 5 certification from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO)—the highest plastic furniture standard in the country—and is certified by both the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS). Each product is stress-tested to withstand up to 200 kilograms, ensuring long-lasting strength and safety.

This year, Uratex Monoblock introduces a new generation of products that reflect the brand’s evolution into more versatile, space-smart, and lifestyle-ready furniture:

The Mary Loveseat, a comfortable two-seater that brings lasting support to living rooms, patios, or shared corners at home.

The William Folding Table, designed for portability without compromising stability—perfect for home offices, events, and everyday dining.

“#BawalAngMarupok goes beyond physical durability—it’s a way of thinking. We want to encourage Filipinos to choose strong, reliable options in all aspects of life, especially when it comes to their home furniture,” said Mr. Dindo Medina, Business Unit Director of Uratex Monoblock. “Whether it’s a chair, a table, or an entire furniture set, strength and safety should never be compromised.”

“Free Taste” is the first of several new video releases in this year’s “Bawal ang Marupok” series, each reflecting a common “marupok” moment in a lighthearted and culturally resonant way. The campaign takes everyday scenarios—like impulse buying—and uses them to underscore the importance of strength in character, decision-making, and the products we choose to bring into our homes.

Catch the “Free Taste” video now on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. For more information on Uratex and its products, visit https://uratex.com.ph/collections/monoblocs.

About Uratex Monoblock 

Uratex Monoblock is a leading and proud Filipino brand and a trusted name when it comes to high-quality, durable, and reliable plastic furniture. Since 1993, it has been a top choice, offering an extensive range of chairs, tables, and storage solutions that meet the demands of Filipino families, businesses, and organizations. 

Committed to safety and strength, Uratex Monoblock products are manufactured following world-class standards and technology tested for safety, durability, and load-bearing capacity. Uratex Monoblock is also the only local plastic furniture manufacturer in the country that has the Level 5 certification from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), and also certification from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS). 

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), a leader in digital financial innovation, has partnered with McDonald’s Philippines to introduce a unique in-store campaign that integrates mobile payments and customer rewards. Through this collaboration of two of the country’s most trusted brands, customers can access exclusive offers on the McDonald’s App, redeemable only when they pay using the BPI app.

In photo (L-R): Maria Cristina “Ginbee” Go, BPI Head of Consumer Banking, and Margot Torres, McDonald’s Philippines Managing Director

To mark the launch of this strategic partnership, BPI app users who pay via QR at any McDonald’s branch can enjoy a free upgrade to Medium Fries and Medium Coke McFloat when they order a Small Double Cheeseburger Meal or a Small 1-pc Chicken McDo Meal.

"At BPI, we continue to innovate to make daily life easier and better for our customers,” said Maria Cristina “Ginbee” Go, BPI Head of Consumer Banking. “This partnership with McDonald’s reflects our commitment to giving Filipinos more convenience and value with every payment. It’s all about enabling people to Do More and Be More with technology that works seamlessly in real life.”

 

“We’re excited for what’s ahead,” added Go. “So, to all BPI and McDo fans watch out for upcoming offers under this partnership.  We’ll be delivering more surprises that make everyday spending more rewarding.”

The BPI app’s Pay via QR feature is the most convenient way for BPI customers to go cashless. They simply scan a merchant’s official QR Ph code with their BPI app, select the BPI deposit account they want to pay from, and approve with Mobile Key. There is no need to cash-in to other e-wallet apps.

How-to-Redeem - BPI

How to Get the Exclusive McDo Deal

For McDonald’s, this partnership reinforces their commitment to creating meaningful and innovative experiences that go beyond the counter.

The free upsize promo is just the beginning. New BPI-exclusive deals will roll out every month on the McDonald’s App, making it even more exciting to use both the BPI app and the McDo App together.

 By integrating banking and retail apps in a seamless user journey, BPI and McDonald’s are setting a new standard for digital partnerships in the Philippines. This initiative is not just about tech—it’s about putting value, ease, and empowerment in the hands of every Filipino. Check out more details about the exclusive BPI deals on the McDonald’s App here.

PH’s largest hotel developer and operator is boosting its hospitality portfolio with the addition of more international-branded hotels in the next five years

Property giant Megaworld, through its hospitality arm Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, is increasing its hotel room key count in the next five years, targeting 9,000 hotel room keys as it expands its hotel properties across its various townships all over the Philippines.

The 326-room Courtyard by Marriott in Iloilo will be consolidated under Megaworld Hotels & Resorts portfolio this year.

To reach 9,000 room keys, Megaworld is set to open seven (7) new hotel properties across the country by 2030. These include the 554-room Chancellor Hotel in Boracay Newcoast; the 404-room Belmont Hotel Iloilo in Iloilo Business Park; the 300-room The Kingsford in The Upper East Bacolod; the 304-room Savoy Hotel Palawan and the 313-room Paragua Sands in Paragua Coastown, San Vicente, Palawan; the 373-room Savoy Capital Town in Capital Town, San Fernando, Pampanga; and the 339-room ArcoVia Hotel in ArcoVia City, Pasig City. 

Currently, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts has 13 operational hotel properties with around 6,000 hotel rooms in some of the country’s key tourism destinations in Metro Manila, Tagaytay, Cebu, and Boracay. These include properties under the Richmond Hotel brand (Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, Eastwood Richmonde Hotel and Richmonde Hotel Iloilo), Belmont Hotel brand (Belmont Manila, Belmont Boracay, Belmont Mactan), Savoy Hotel brand (Savoy Manila, Savoy Mactan, Savoy Boracay), Hotel Lucky Chinatown, Twin Lakes Hotel, Kingsford Hotel Manila, and Grand Westside Hotel.

This year, the company is also consolidating the 15-story Courtyard by Marriott in Iloilo Business Park, an international hotel brand, under its hotel portfolio, increasing the current room keys by 326.

Within the year, Belmont Hotel Mactan inside the 30-hectare The Mactan Newtown in Cebu will also transition into an Accor-branded international hotel, the Mercure Mactan Cebu.

In the next five years, at least five more existing homegrown properties of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts will transition into Accor-branded hotels. This move will allow Megaworld Hotels & Resorts to operate not just homegrown hotel brands but also many international hotel brands.

“It is Alliance Global Group’s thrust to strengthen and streamline our hospitality portfolio as we look to attract and welcome more tourists, more conventions, and more events in our hotel developments,” says Kevin L. Tan, president and CEO, Alliance Global Group (AGI), the parent company of Megaworld.

Megaworld logo

“The inclusion of international hotels in our portfolio will further cement our position as the largest hotel operator in the country for both local and international hotels. Through this expansion program, we aim to continue to further grow and strengthen our contribution to the Philippine tourism industry,” says Lourdes Gutierrez-Alfonso, president and CEO, Megaworld.

Earlier this year, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts announced that it has tapped Accor, one of the largest hotel chains in the world, to be its partner in expanding and elevating its homegrown hotel portfolio.

It was a morning filled with excitement as the sun’s first light poured over the horizon of Hilutungan channel, casting a golden glow on the tranquil waters. Last weekend, our private yacht – a recreational boat beauty that had been carefully stocked and prepared for this  – undocked from the serene shores of the Club Cebu Hopping Diving Resort in Maribago. The air was crisp with the promise of adventure, and as the transfer boat brings us to the Yacht. Once on board, the yacht slowly glided away from its anchors, the channel spread out before us, a vast stretch of water that connected the islands and the exciting resort skyscrapers of Mactan Island as the history resort city in the Philippines.

A fine day with the boat transfer from shore to Club Cebu Hopping Yacht

With the hum of the yacht's engines beneath our feet, the anticipation began to build. The crew, a mix of friendly and professional staff, moved about efficiently, preparing for the first part of the day’s journey - a welcome dance performance onboard! The vast blue sea shimmered, and the yacht’s sleek hull cut through the water with ease.

Club Cebu Hopping and Diving Resort double decker Yacht

We were promised an unforgettable experience, and it was quickly becoming clear that we were about to be swept into an adventure like no other. The luxury of being on a private yacht was evident in every aspect of the journey. It wasn’t just about the boat or the destination—it was about the experience, the freedom to explore, and the delicious indulgence along the way. And, naturally, the food was going to be a highlight.

The buffet spread at Club Cebu Hopping Yacht

As the yacht skimmed across the water, the buffet spread was unveiled, and the flavors took center stage. The tables were lined with a delightful fusion of seafood, local specialties, and Seoul-style dishes which gained now gained popularity in Cebu. A huge platter of grilled seafood sat beside perfectly seasoned local favorites, carefully planned for the mid day meal. Spicy kimchi mingled with tender meat loafs, and hoarded few sticks of barbecue on my plate. We all feasted like royalty, savoring every bite as the boat continued its graceful glide through the calm waters and the picturesque view of Mactan Island shores and Olango.

The mix of flavors—local, international, and fusion—felt like a culinary adventure in itself. Each dish told a story, and the atmosphere on board was filled with laughter and conversation, as the sea stretched on around us. The friendly chatter between bites was infectious, and every now and then, someone would raise a glass to the beauty of the day. The open bar added an extra layer of indulgence, with cocktails flowing as the yacht moved steadily towards its next destination: Olango Island.

All White Cebu Bloggers Society and Cebu Creators at Club Cebu Hopping Yacht

As we ventured deeper into the channel, heading towards the picturesque San Vicente, the mood was light and lively. The warm breeze swept through the deck, and the salty scent of the sea seemed to invigorate the entire group. Each guest are being assigned with crew staff which can attend your need like serving you a drink, they can be your photographer for that Island hopping social media post too.

By the time we reached Olango Island, the excitement was palpable. Some of the group, eager to explore the underwater world, donned their scuba gear and prepared for a diving experience that would take them into the deep, torquise waters of Hilutungan channel. The crew had been busy prepping the dive equipment—everything from tanks to fins, all checked and double-checked for safety. But while the divers headed off to explore the deeper depths of the sea, another part of the group was ready to explore the shallows.

Divers with the turquoise water backdrop

I was among those who chose to spend time snorkeling. There’s something magical about drifting in the water, weightless and free, as the world beneath the waves opens up before you. We swam alongside vibrant coral gardens, each moment offering a new discovery. We brought some fish food and bread to attract brilliant schools of fish which darted playfully around us, their iridescent scales catching the light.

Some of the fish had colors so vivid they looked like brushstrokes of an artist, swishing through the clear turquoise water. Though the ocean current are medium strong, the coral formations stretched out like underwater forests, with each turn revealing new marine life. It was as though the ocean itself was a living, breathing canvas of beauty, constantly shifting and changing.

Club Cebu Hopping has Gopro units onboard, the crew assign to you will help you document your hopping journey.

For those of us who preferred to relax with a drink in hand, the open bar was the perfect retreat. The cool cocktails—each one more refreshing than the last—were complemented by the breathtaking scenery. The vibrant blue waters of the island beckoned, while the warm sun on our skin made it hard to believe that such a perfect day existed.

In between the excitement of the water activities, the yacht's energetic and cheerful staff kept the atmosphere light and entertaining. There were moments when the music would swell and the crew would lead everyone in a series of fun, spontaneous yacht party dances. Even those who hadn’t planned to join in found themselves laughing and dancing, swept up in the carefree joy of the moment. The lively dances brought everyone together, creating memories that would stay with us long after we had returned to land.

Dancing is one of Club Cebu Hopping entertainment language

Club Cebu Hopping crews can be your trusted boat captain as well as ensure no boring moments at the decks.

Energetic boat crews at Club Cebu Hopping

We hop to another Island and this time we found ourselves at the equally enchanting and humble Mundo Island in Maribago.

As the crew busied themselves preparing the jet skis and banana boats, there was no shortage of things to do. Some of the group decided to take out the jet skis, feeling the thrill of racing across the waves, leaving behind a trail of foam as the engine roared to life. The wind in their faces and the thrill of the water beneath them made for an exhilarating ride. Meanwhile, another option would be the banana boat, though none tried, its an adrenaline ride of laughing as they bounced across the water. That bright yellow vessel looking like a playful inflatable on the horizon. The turquoise waters stretched out around them, and the excitement was palpable as they skimmed along the surface, propelled by the force of the boat’s motor.

Club Cebu Hopping offers water sports: Jet skis, Banana boat, snorkeling, scuba diving, parasailing, banana boat rides and helmet diving. Inquire in advance with the crew to secure your activity spot.

As the day unfolded, we had the unique opportunity to witness something many could only dream of: certified divers slipping effortlessly into the sea with their mobile dive gear. The crew had set up dive stations, ensuring that those of us who wanted to explore the deeper parks and reef sites could do so safely and with the guidance of experienced instructors. It was awe-inspiring to watch as the divers descended into the crystal-clear water, disappearing into the depths as if they were part of the ocean itself.

Dive with trained Club Cebu hopping scuba masters.

It was an experience like no other. To be able to witness the magic of the ocean firsthand, to explore its depths and swim alongside creatures that called it home—it was a reminder of how vast and incredible our world is. And yet, there was still so much to discover. After all the water activities and dancing with the crews, everyone are treated with a platter of Mango, water melon and grapes as well as steaming hot ramen with kimchi for food pampering. Very hospitable from Club Cebu Hopping team. Not to mention the bottomless drinks which stayed cold for the duration of the hopping.

Fruit platters of Sweet Cebu mangoes, water melon and grapes at Club Cebu Hopping

One of the most memorable moments came toward the rear end of the journey when a cocktail show was set up on the deck. The crew bartender, a true entertainers with bottles and make shift water mist machine, performed a mesmerizing display of dancing skill, twirling, flipping, and pouring drinks with flair. The colors of the cocktails matched the energy of the sun hues in the sky, each drink a work of art in its own right. We gathered around, drinks in hand, enjoying the show as the warm of the sun put more energy to the group.

Multi talented Club Cebu Hopping boat crew acts as DJ and voice Dj

Club Cebu Hopping Crew and guest in the dance floor.

The journey felt endless, as if the sea had become a timeless realm where anything was possible. The activities, the laughter, the food, and the unparalleled beauty of the sea—all combined to create an unforgettable experience.

Thank you for the ultimate Sea Party ever, Club Cebu Hopping team!

As the yacht slowly began its return journey to Maribago, the memories of the day lingered, as though they had been etched into our minds forever. We had spent the day discovering the wonders of the sea, but in truth, it was more than that. It was a day of connection: connection with nature, with friends, and with the pure joy of being alive in a moment of perfect harmony. The yacht had not simply carried us across the waters; it had carried us into an unforgettable adventure—a reminder of just how vast and beautiful our world is, and how, sometimes, all it takes is a perfect day on the water to remind us of that.

Cebu, are you ready to unleash your inner book beast? Big Bad Wolf Books made its long-awaited return to Cebu, kicking off its 2025 book sale with an opening celebration at the Atrium Area of GMall Cebu. Running from July 25 to August 4, from 10AM to 9PM daily, the world’s biggest book sale returns to the Queen City of the South with thousands of brand-new books and untamed discounts you’ll want to sink your teeth into.

Big Bad Wolf Books at Gmall of Cebu

Eager readers, loyal fans, and first-timers alike gathered early to welcome back the world’s biggest book sale and that unmistakable bookish joy that has defined every Big Bad Wolf experience for every sale. The book sale in Cebu also offers visitors a chance to help support The Sisters of Mary Schools through Big Bad Wolf’s Red Readerhood Program.

A Howl of Thanks from Red Readerhood Beneficiary

The event’s grand welcome featured heartfelt messages from Big Bad Wolf Books Co-Founder Jacqueline Ng, who shared her excitement about being back in Cebu and the company’s continued mission to make books more accessible to every Filipino through the Red Readerhood Program.

“It’s always a pleasure to come back to Cebu,” said Jacqueline Ng. “There’s a real love for reading here that we’ve felt every time we visit. The support from the Cebuano community means so much to us. It’s this shared passion that fuels our mission to get books in the hands of those who need it and inspire a lifelong love for reading.”

Big Bad Wolf Books Cebu Top 10 Best Selling Fiction Books

 

Setting the tone for the day, Red Readerhood beneficiaries from The Sisters of Mary School, Boystown and Girlstown, took center stage in a powerful showcase of talent and gratitude. A moving choir performance by Boystown and a beautiful violin set by Girlstown students uplifted the event.  

Additionally, Big Bad Wolf Books turned over 500 books to Gawad Kalinga, making another meaningful step in sharing the joy of reading with Filipino communities. Known for providing housing, improving access to learning, and nurturing hope through its programs, Gawad Kalinga embodies the same values of dignity and opportunity that drive the Red Readerhood Program.

Big Bad Wolf Books Cebu Customer Service

Ley Almeda, Country Head of Big Bad Wolf Books Philippines, also expressed deep appreciation for the warm welcome from the Cebuano community, saying, “Working with The Sisters of Mary Schools through our Red Readerhood Program is an honor. When we see students perform like this, we’re reminded of exactly why we do what we do,” said Ley Almeda.

Through the Red Readerhood Program, Big Bad Wolf Books continues to empower underserved youth by donating books directly to partner schools. This year, every purchase and every donation helps young minds from The Sisters of Mary Schools to fall in love with the magic of reading.

The 2025 Big Bad Wolf Cebu Book Sale comes fully loaded with tiered promos that make it easier than ever to grow your book den. Spend ₱2,000 and instantly slash ₱200 off your total. Go beast mode with a ₱5,000 book haul and enjoy a ₱500 discount at checkout.

Big Bad Wolf Books Cebu Children Books Prices List

Schools and libraries also get a 10% discount on English titles for purchases of ₱30,000 or more, perfect for stocking up classroom shelves. What about students? Just flash your valid student ID and enjoy an automatic 5% discount, no minimum spend required. Plus, Big Bad Wolf Books is cooking up a special promo just for readers from nearby provinces, so keep your eye on their social media pages to know more.

Hunt Books, Find Joy, Join the Pack

Whether you’re hunting for that rare title, bonding with fellow readers, or just looking to spark a lifelong love of books, book it to the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale at GMall Cebu and experience the sale that’s turning pages—and lives—across the country. The Big Bad Wolf Cebu Book Sale runs from July 25 to August 4 at the Atrium of GMall of Cebu, open daily from 10AM to 9PM. 

Big Bad Wolf Books Cebu Top 10 Best Selling Fiction Books

For more information regarding Big Bad Wolf’s current and upcoming Book Sales, you can visit their website or check out their social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram).

About Big Bad Wolf Books

The Big Bad Wolf Books was founded by Andrew Yap and Jacqueline Ng in 2009 and first launched in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. In the words of the company’s founders, Big Bad Wolf aims to cultivate reading habits, increase English literacy worldwide, and build a new generation of readers by making books more affordable and accessible to everyone.

One of the company’s best highlights is its book sales, which is popular among readers around the world. As a global reading advocacy initiative, the sales aim to encourage people of all ages to discover the joys of reading, inspire them to pursue their dreams, and, importantly, empower them with the knowledge to realize them.

Big Bad Wolf Book Sale has toured 17 countries and 49 cities. Among these include different cities in Asia like Malaysia, Cambodia, Manila, Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Indonesia. The company has also begun branching out to book readers outside the Asia Pacific, having held book tours in Tanzania, Kenya, and the United Arab Emirates and most recently, to Saudi Arabia and Egypt.