UNIQLO today furthers its reach in Cebu with the opening of the first LifeWear store in Mandaue City at SM City J Mall, the brand’s fifth in the central Visayan capital.

Uniqlo  LifeWear store, SM City J Mall, Mandaue, Cebu

More Cebuanos now get to enjoy UNIQLO’s brand of high-quality, stylish, and affordable apparel at the new 102.3 sqm space. The store also serves as the closest UNIQLO location to Mactan Airport in Lapu-Lapu, enhancing convenience for both residents and travelers. In celebration of UNIQLO SM City J Mall’s opening, shoppers can surely look forward to lots of amazing offers and limited promos during the store’s first week. 

Uniqlo  LifeWear store, SM City J Mall, Mandaue, Cebu

For every Php 2,500 spent from October 25 to 31, app members can boost their collection of UNIQLO novelty items with an exclusive UNIQLO thermal mug. Shoppers can also win exciting vouchers through a popular Japanese toy-vending machine known as gachapon. Mystery prizes include vouchers for a free upsize in any The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf branch in Cebu, a free donut from SM City J Mall J.CO Donuts & Coffee, and a surprise novelty item. To play the game, shoppers must be a UNIQLO app member and present a minimum purchase of Php 2,500 from October 25 to 27.

Get this JMALL exclusive UNIQLO thermal Mug when you spend Php 2,500 from October 25- 31.

The discounts extend to your transportation fare as well. Get a maximum of Php 60 off on your Grab ride when you pin UNIQLO SM City J Mall as your destination or pick-up point. Simply use the promo code #UNIQLOJMall to avail of the promotion, which runs from October 25 to 31.

Uniqlo  LifeWear store, SM City J Mall, Mandaue, Cebu

Uniqlo  LifeWear store, SM City J Mall, Mandaue, Cebu

The fun also begins a week before the opening of UNIQLO SM City J Mall. Receive a UNIQLO Tote Bag with Cooler Compartment by purchasing online or through the UNIQLO App, and selecting UNIQLO SM City J Mall as your Click & Collect store from October 18 to 24.

Now that we’re nearing the holiday season, you’ll surely find great value in these deals. Some standouts include: 

Flannel Shirt (Now at PHP 990 from PHP PHP 1,490)

Women’s Pleated Wide Pants (Now at PHP 1,490 from PHP 1,990)

UNIQLO U Crew Neck T-Shirt (Now at PHP 390 from PHP 590)

Light Souffle Yarn V Neck Short Cardigan (Now at PHP 990 from PHP 1,490)

Round Mini Shoulder Bag (Now at PHP 590 from PHP 790)

Be one of the pioneer shoppers at UNIQLO’s first store in Mandaue City at SM City J Mall. To learn more about #UniqloPH and #LifeWear, check out www.uniqlo.com/ph/en/ and follow @uniqlo on Facebook and @uniqlophofficial on Instagram.

Shang Properties, Inc. a renowned luxury developer has made its first foray into Cebu with the launch of Shang Bauhinia Residences, marking their inaugural project outside of Metro Manila.

Shang Bauhinia Residences artist rendering from Golf Course angle

This residential development is set to bring the company’s signature brand of luxury living to the city, setting the standard for elevated residential experiences in the region and creating a legacy for generations to come.

Situated along the tree-lined neighborhood of Bauhinia Drive, just minutes away from Cebu I.T. Park, Shang Bauhinia Residences offers unparalleled convenience and exclusivity. It is set to house Cebu's most exquisite condominium residences, providing residents with a balance of serenity and convenience, alongside panoramic views of the city and world-class amenities.

Transforming Cebu's skyline with its iconic, record-breaking architecture, Shang Bauhinia Residences sets a new benchmark for luxury living, blending timeless craftsmanship with unmatched exclusivity.

Wolfgang Krueger, Executive Director at Shang Properties

“We are excited to make our mark in Cebu," said Wolfgang Krueger, Executive Director at Shang Properties. “Cebu is not new to us; our sister company Shangri-La Hotels and Resort built the first Shangri-La Resort in Mactan, and it has offered unparalleled luxury vacation experiences to Cebuanos for decades. We look forward to introducing our distinguished brand of redefined luxury living to this dynamic city.”

“Cebuanos appreciate quality and elegance. We are dedicated to delivering an elevated living experience that aligns with the tastes and preferences of the Cebuano community,” he added.

Shang Bauhinia Residences is designed in collaboration with internationally renowned firms P&T Group, CASAS + Architects Inc., and FM Architettura, combining luxury and functionality, offering residents the personalized experience Shang Properties is known for.

It also proudly incorporates local artistry into the design, celebrating Cebuano craftsmanship through traditional materials and artistic elements that reflect Cebu’s rich cultural heritage.

Shang Properties Inc. Top Execs (L-R): Rose Morales, Senior Director for Group Sales; Jayme Uy, Director for Marketing; Che Diaz, Executive Vice President - Commercial and Wolfgang Krueger, Executive Director.

“We’ve thoughtfully curated Shang Bauhinia Residences to incorporate local elements that resonate with Cebuanos, ensuring they will feel truly at home. Our goal is to create a space that is not only luxurious but also deeply connected to its surroundings,” said Ma. Rochelle S. Diaz, Executive Vice President – Commercial at Shang Properties, Inc.

Construction of the 52-storey condominium is expected to be completed by the 2nd half of 2031.

A New Standard in Luxury

Shang Bauhinia Residences offers a wide range of residential options, from the intimate luxuries of its studio and one-bedroom units to the elevated experiences of its two- and three-bedroom residences.

It also offers exclusive amenity spaces, providing residents with private social and wellness offerings, setting a new benchmark for luxury living in the city.

The property features an expansive podium level with a 3,800 sqm area filled with amenities, including a lush outdoor resort pool, gardenscapes, and a suite of world-class wellness and fitness facilities, as well as flexible co-working spaces.

Residents can also enjoy private entertainment rooms and dining spaces, along with the expansive ballroom for parties and special events.

The Signature Units at Shang Bauhinia Residences include less than a hundred spacious and meticulously designed homes that provide added privacy and elevated experiences.

On top of Shang Bauhinia Residences amenities, residents on these upper floors enjoy the convenience of a private lift and exclusive access to the Signature Lounge, which features a stunning sky pool, a modern gym, a sauna, and private entertainment venues, providing a sense of comfort and a private oasis.

Shang Properties Inc. Top Execs (L-R): Rose Morales, Senior Director for Group Sales; Jayme Uy, Director for Marketing; Che Diaz, Executive Vice President - Commercial with Cebuana host Karla Henry.

A Location Like No Other

Shang Bauhinia Residences offers stunning panoramic views of Cebu, from the lush green fields of the nearby Cebu Country Club and the striking city skyline to serene sea views and surrounding mountains.

With its prime location, the property provides easy access to educational institutions, medical facilities, sports centers, and retail hubs. It is also just minutes away from key business districts, including Cebu I.T. Park and Cebu Business Park, offering residents the perfect blend of tranquility and city convenience.

Experience luxury in full bloom with Shang Properties Inc.’s, Shang Bauhinia Residences. For more information, visit www.shangbauhiniaresidences.com and like and follow @shangbauhiniaresidences on Facebook and Instagram.

Cebu is undoubtedly a wonderful place to live in: it is vibrant and full of activities and destinations. It is no surprise that many are looking for the perfect home in Cebu, especially one that best fits their family. Fortunately, there are many choices for families to thrive and grow, including Camella communities in Cebu.

There is no better place to experience modern comforts without breaking the bank than Cebu City. A business district, hospitals, schools, and entertainment hubs are within minutes of each other. The Cebu IT Park is where multinational companies have built offices and run large-scale operations.

Because of the work and educational opportunities the city offers, Cebu is a hotspot for the most sought-after homes in the province, of which Camella properties are at the forefront. Camella has two family-friendly subdivisions with views of sloping hills and the sea within Talamban in Cebu: Riverdale and Riverfront. 

Riverdale is a community set against the panoramic hills of Talamban in Cebu featuring Southern American-themed luxury homes.

Riverdale is a 13-hectare Southern American-themed community set against the panoramic peaks and clusters of pine trees while Riverfront is a residential enclave featuring the best-selling homes of Camella in an expanse of almost 10 hectares. This pine community features homes built on gently undulating terrain that fuses the efficiency of modern architecture with the natural contours of the land.

Linked to Cebu City via the South Coastal Highway, Azienda sits atop the hills of Talisay with five enclaves, each of which stays true to its Italian them.

For those preferring a more laidback atmosphere yet still want the sensibilities of modern living, Camella in Talisay streamlines the search for the ideal home in Cebu. Linked to the city through the South Coastal Highway, Azienda sits atop the hills of Talisay and comprises five enclaves that stays true to its Italian theme. 

Lapu-Lapu City is on Mactan Island, where the abundance of beach resorts and natural sites is what every family will appreciate. It is also where the Mactan-Cebu International Airport is located. Despite the increasing interest of homebuyers in the locale, Camella still guarantees a relaxing family lifestyle in the gated Camella Montserrat and Vittoria. Either development places families at the heart of a resort city, where beautiful beaches are just a stone’s throw away. 

The gated 17-hectare Camella Bogo features the best of modern and rustic living with its Spanish-Mediterranean theme.

One of the frontrunners outside of Metro Cebu has to be Bogo City due to the rapid developments in the area. The best of modern and rustic living with the Spanish-Mediterranean architecture is found in the gated17-hectare Camella Bogo. The homes are perfect for those looking at starter homes or a place to put down roots for generations.

Camella Carcar offers convenience and easy access to schools, recreational areas, and shopping centers-the ideal place to call home.

Carcar City has a tight knit community, preserving traditional Cebuano values. A home in Camella Carcar situates homeowners in the middle of this lively community, close to transportation routes and major centers. The 40-hectare Camella Carcar offers homes of modern charm with its Spanish-inspired architecture. It is conveniently connected to the city center through the South Road project, captivating prospective investors with its blend of the exciting urban rush and longed-for respite. 

A family home is more than just the physical structure and a roof over one’s head. It should provide opportunities for growth and strengthen family ties. Camella in Cebu ensures that you get that and more with its line-up of developments.  

For more information on Camella communities in Cebu, visit www.camella.com.ph and follow @CamellaOfficial.

Fili Hotel NUSTAR Cebu launched “Quintessentially Thai,” a vibrant four-day celebration of Thai cuisine last August 1-4 2024, at Fili Café. The festival offers an immersive experience into Thailand’s rich flavors and cultural traditions.

Fili Cafe Staff in traditional wear

The grand opening features a beautiful Loy Krathong festival, graced by His Excellency Tull Traisorat, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to the Republic of the Philippines.

Loy Krathong opening ceremony

Chef Suthin Songmuang with his herb garden

A Taste of Thailand

Guests at Fili Café will be treated to a diverse array of authentic Thai dishes expertly crafted by Chef Suthin Songmuang of Benjarong, Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu. The festival’s menu showcases a variety of traditional Thai delicacies, designed to provide a genuine taste of Thailand’s culinary heritage.

Deep Fried Fish Three Flavor Sauce

As part of the festivities, diners spending PHP 5,000 or more will have the chance to win thrilling raffle prizes. Grand prizes include a roundtrip ticket from Cebu to Bangkok via Cebu Pacific and a two-night stay at Dusit Thani Hua Hin. Secondary prizes feature an overnight stay at Dusit Thani Pattaya and a two-night stay at Dusit Thani Mactan.

Dusit Thani General Manager, Laurent Betourne and Wife

This event highlights the successful collaboration between Fili Hotel NUSTAR Cebu and Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu, both esteemed members of the Robinsons Hotels and Resorts family. This partnership reflects the shared commitment to delivering exceptional experiences and celebrating cultural diversity. This is part of a chef exchange initiative between the two sister companies: in August, Chef Suthin comes to Fili, and in September, our Korean Chef Yongjun will visit Dusit Thani.

L-FAmbassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to the Republic of the Philippines, Tull Traisorat, Roel Constantino, and Alan Teo

For more information about Fili Hotel NUSTAR Cebu’s upcoming offerings and events, please visit www.nustar.ph.

About Fili Hotel NUSTAR Cebu

Fili Hotel NUSTAR Cebu, is the newest brand of homegrown hotels by Robinsons Hotels and Resorts.

Positioned as the first of three hotel towers in a pioneering integrated NUSTAR Resort Cebu, the Fili Hotel offers a picturesque view of the southern part of Cebu City and the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX). Its strategic location allows for convenient access, being a 30-minute drive from the Mactan-Cebu International Airport via the CCLEX and a 25-minute sea travel from Mactan.

Fili Hotel NUSTAR Cebu pledges to deliver the global allure of Filipino hospitality and accommodations, emphasizing luxury and genuine Filipino care in every aspect.

For inquiries and reservations, dial (032) 888-8282 or email the hotel through contactus@nustar.com.ph. More information can also be found on the website at www.nustar.ph/hotels/fili.

The Philippines’ trailblazing digital bank, Tonik, announces its expansion to Cebu, bringing its full suite of customer-centric and innovative products to this vibrant region. This move underscores Tonik’s vision to enhance financial inclusivity and provide accessible banking solutions to more Filipinos.

Beauty Queen Ms. Eva Patalinghug hosted the Tonik Bank launching at CAVA, Cebu City

Greg Krasnov, Founder and President of Tonik with Sinulog Festival Dancers

The Shop Installment Loan is a standout feature in Tonik’s suite of lending products, enabling customers to effortlessly purchase their dream home appliances and gadgets with the lowest* monthly payments. (*compared to current Consumer Financing Providers’ Standard Loan offers.)

Greg Krasnov, Founder and President of Tonik.

Ms. Rina Janine Go of Prince Retail Group of Companies during Tonic Bank launching

Ms. Donna San Luis, Marketing Manager of Robinsons Appliances  during Tonic Bank launching

Mr. Elon Cabuguas, Rulls Regional Sales & Marketing Manager - Central & Eastern Visayas during Tonic Bank launching

The Shop Installment Loan will initially be available at select retailers, with plans to expand to more stores by Q4 2024. 

Tonik looks forward to serving the locals and contributing to their financial well-being, continuing its commitment to transforming the financial landscape in the country.  

About Tonik 

Tonik is the first digital-only neobank in the Philippines, providing loan, deposit, and payment products to consumers on a highly secure digital banking platform. The neobank operates based on the first digital bank license issued by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).   

Tonik is led by a team of retail finance veterans who have previously built and scaled multiple retail banks and fintechs across global emerging markets. It is backed by top international investors, including Sequoia India, Point72 Ventures, and Mizuho Bank. Tonik’s tech stack is integrated in partnership with world-class banktech vendors including Mastercard, Finastra, Amazon Web Services, Google, Genesys, and Daon. Tonik operates out of hubs in Singapore (HQ), Manila, and Chennai.

Uratex Monoblock, the trusted Filipino plastic furniture brand, recently launched its second campaign video, “Laro,” as part of its year-long campaign “Bawal ang Marupok,” which highlights how monobloc chairs can support and become part of every Filipino’s passion—even their intense gaming sessions.

The ‘Bawal ang Marupok’ second campaign video, “Laro,” showcases Uratex Monoblock as the reliable choice even for intense gaming sessions.

Filipinos show undeniable dedication to their hobbies, and among these is gaming, which has become a significant part of Filipino culture and society.  In the ad titled “Laro,” it showed how Filipinos need not only a reliable team, but also a dependable monobloc chair that literally has their back. The video showed a teenage boy fervently playing an online game while seated on a Uratex Monoblock chair. He is interrupted by his father calling for help with his mother. As the boy rushes to help, his father takes over the game, testing the durability of the Uratex Monoblock chair with his intense play.

The Uratex Monoblock chair remains resilient through the family's lively interactions and energetic moments. The ad emphasized the chair's durability in typical Filipino household scenarios. Whether faced with daily activities or unexpected events, Uratex Monoblock stands ready to provide stable and reliable support.

Uratex Monoblock is the sole local plastic furniture brand with global standards at Level 5 certification from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), reinforcing its 200kg seat load capacity that ensures durability and reliability of its premium products. Additionally, Uratex Monoblock holds local certifications from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS), and has secured certification from the Advertising Standards Council (ASC).

“Uratex Monoblock understands the unique needs of Filipinos, from accomplishing everyday tasks to pursuing hobbies, especially the passion of the younger generation for various activities including gaming. Our monobloc chairs are designed to provide unwavering support and reliability, ensuring that individuals seated, no matter how intense or long the hours required, enjoy comfort and style,” said Mr. Dindo Medina, Business Unit Director of Uratex Monoblock.

The latest “Bawal ang Marupok” video advertisement showcased the indomitable Filipino spirit, reminding viewers that when they feel weak and give in to even video games, Uratex remains strong and dependable with their superior products. With Uratex Monoblock, no game is too intense and no session is too long when you’ve got a seat that’s as ready for action as you are.

Uratex Monoblock offers a variety of classic chairs perfect for gaming, work, or hobbies, such as the 101 Classic Chair, Americana Chair, and Sofie Chair. Designed with a traditional Filipino style, these chairs are all durable and comfortable, fitting various home styles and personal tastes to ensure everyone can find the perfect match for their needs.

From left to right: Uratex Monoblock Classic 101 Chair, 1001 Americana Chair, & Sofie Chair

In addition to their classic chairs, Uratex Monoblock also provides lifestyle chairs such as the Brooklyn Chair, Marciana Chair, and Olympia Chair. These stylish and comfortable seating options are ideal for gaming, work, or hobbies. Whether you're looking for something timeless or modern, Uratex Monoblock has a chair to suit your preferences.

From left to right: Uratex Monoblock Charlotte Bistro Chair, Marciana Chair, & Olympia Armchair

Can you relate to the intensity of gaming? Watch the "Laro" video on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to see how Uratex Monoblock stands up to the challenge–from family fun to serious gaming sessions. For more information on Uratex and its products, visit https://uratex.com.ph/collections/monoblocs.

*All claims in the video and press release have been verified as true by the Ad Standards Council, ASC-M0056N032224U.

Fili Hotel NUSTAR Cebu, the first 5-star Filipino hospitality brand in the Philippines, invites guests to indulge in the ultimate luxury experience this Mother’s Day with its “Set Sail with Mom” deal, a sunset cruise offering surreal views and complimentary cocktails.

Caption: Crucero, NUSTAR’s Signature Sunset Cruise

NUSTAR Resort Cebu delights in curating luxury lifestyle experiences and one-of-a-kind moments that transcend time and elicit different emotions from guests. These unique moments anchored in NUSTAR’s vision are called NUSTAR Signatures, with Crucero being the first to be launched.

The experience starts even before guests climb aboard a private boat. They will be treated to breathtaking views of the sea, the mountains, and Cebu’s skyline from both the waters and the land. The cruise allows guests to take in and appreciate these sights from various vantage points.

With NUSTAR’s Crucero, guests can cruise along the coast of Cebu and watch a sunset painting in progress from the comfort of a private boat. It provides the perfect setting for romantic getaways, serene solo adventures, or intimate gatherings with friends and family, all while the sky paints itself in majestic sunset colors.

As a special Mother’s Day treat, bookings for the Crucero sunset cruise are priced at Php2,200 per person, inclusive of cocktails. Guests who book a stay at Fili Hotel NUSTAR Cebu can avail of the Crucero experience for an additional Php1,500 per person only.

Booking is open from May 1 to 30, 2024, while the Crucero sunset cruise is available only on May 11 and May 18, both Saturdays. Room rates start at Php10,500++.

Book via https://bitl.y/ReserveNowAtFiliHotel, call the trunkline at (032) 888 8282, or email NUSTAR at contactus@nustar.com.ph. Terms and conditions apply.

More NUSTAR Signatures will be introduced to guests soon, only here in the Island of New Possibilities.

About Fili Hotel NUSTAR Cebu

Fili Hotel NUSTAR Cebu, is the newest brand of homegrown hotels by Robinsons Hotels and Resorts.

Positioned as the first of three hotel towers in a pioneering integrated NUSTAR Resort Cebu, the Fili Hotel offers a picturesque view of the southern part of Cebu City and the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX). Its strategic location allows for convenient access, being a 30-minute drive from the Mactan-Cebu International Airport via the CCLEX and a 25-minute sea travel from Mactan.

Fili Hotel NUSTAR Cebu pledges to deliver the global allure of Filipino hospitality and accommodations, emphasizing luxury and genuine Filipino care in every aspect.

For inquiries and reservations, dial (032) 888-8282 or email the hotel through contactus@nustar.com.ph. More information can also be found on the website at www.nustar.ph/hotels/fili.

All kinds of celebrations and wins can be made more special and meaningful with a delicious cake, and a heartfelt message. Big celebrations get a wonderful centerpiece, while small wins become more memorable through a sweet treat. Red Ribbon's all-new Round Dedication Cakes is an ideal choice for special moments!

Red Ribbon Round Dedication Cakes

These Round Dedication Cakes are the newest designs of Red Ribbon's celebration favorites. The new design elevates celebrations into special memories with its pleasing round shape, while keeping the delicious taste you enjoy and love, making the Round Dedication Cake a delectable, all-around cake.

Treat yourself and your loved ones to a Chocolate Dedication Cake, a classic favorite with delicious and moist chocolate filling and fudgy icing that'll sweeten up anyone's day.

Red Ribbon Rainbow Dedication Cake

Add more color to your kids’ celebrations, with Rainbow Dedication Cake’s enjoyable chocolate-rich and colorful slices that brighten up occasions, or mark your celebrations with Vanilla Sprinkles Dedication Cake’s whimsical, colorful twist on creamy, vanilla slices.

Red Ribbon Vanilla Sprinkles Dedication Cake

For more elegant moments, the Creamy Caramel Dedication Cake offers an indulgent caramel treat but is delightfully light with just the right sweetness, or you can go with the Mocha Dedication Cake and enjoy a wonderful mix of chocolate and coffee flavors combined with crisp chocolate pearls.

Red Ribbon Mocha Dedication Cake

Whichever you choose, Red Ribbon's Round Dedication Cakes will make any celebration special all year round.

Visit your nearest Red Ribbon store and indulge in the all-new Round Dedication Cakes, now available in your favorite flavors: Chocolate, Rainbow, Vanilla Sprinkles, Creamy Caramel, and Mocha. Also available on the Red Ribbon website, Red Ribbon app, or GrabFood and foodpanda apps. Prices start at Php 450.

To kick off PLDT Home’s Fiber Fastbreak series, Carl Tamayo and Calvin Oftana of Gilas Pilipinas and Roger Pogoy of TNT Tropang Giga trace their roots back in their hometown with fellow hard-court hotshot Kib Montalbo and celebrate their passion for the sport with Cebuano fans

Known to breed rising talent in the high school and collegiate levels and professional and international stars who have grown to be household names, Cebu is a hotbed of top-tier basketball talent in the Philippines. The region has produced some of the best players in the country – from multi-time MVP June Mar Fajardo and former Gilas sharpshooter Dondon Hontiveros.

Basketball stars (L-R)Kib Montalbo, Carl Tamayo, Calvin Oftana and Roger Pogoy

PLDT Home’s Fiber Fastbreak Series kickoff

On April 20, some of the biggest basketball stars from Gilas Pilipinas and Tropang TNT Giga returned to Cebu and the Visayas for a grand “homecoming.” At the kickoff of PLDT Home’s Fiber Fastbreak series held at SM Seaside Cebu City, Carl Tamayo and Calvin Oftana of Gilas Pilipinas and Roger “RR” Pogoy and Kib Montalbo of TNT Tropang Giga temporarily escaped their busy basketball games and trainings to reconnect back to their roots. The four athletes met fans and enthusiasts for one afternoon – on a mission to inspire them about pursuing their dreams and passions in life.

Tamayo, Oftana, Pogoy, and Montalbo made their first stop at the PLDT and Smart Store also right inside SM Seaside to meet and greet PLDT Home customers. Inside the newly reopened store, the athletes challenged customers to a basketball arcade game before obliging for more photo opportunities and interactions with fans.

Gamefest 2024

The athletes then graced the much-attended Gamefest 2024, where they interacted with mallgoers for a fun NBA 2K24 session followed by a quick parlor game onstage.

Hosted by Mikee Reyes, a basketball player turned sportscaster himself, the PLDT Home Fiber Fastbreak kickoff only underscored how sports among other passions unites Filipinos from all ages and all walks of life. The event witnessed hard-court heroes coming full circle as they reflected on their own sports journeys.

Carl Tamayo

“Coming home to Cebu makes me remember how I started my basketball career, and how far I’ve come thanks to this sport,” said Tamayo, from Talisay, Cebu. “Everything I do is to honor my family especially my dearly departed dad who was also a former player at the University of Southern Philippines Foundation.”

A discovery from Southwestern University flown to Manila at 13 to play for the Adamson Baby Falcons and then the National University Bullpups, Tamayo saw his career flourish in college. He helped the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons win their UAAP men’s basketball championship in 2022 – UP’s first since 1986. Since then, he has become a regular member of the Gilas Pilipinas roster and has also played at the Japanese B.League. 

Calvin Oftana

Meanwhile, aside from winning his first PBA title in 2023, Oftana boasts one of the most storied careers. Born in Danao, Cebu but raised in Dumaguete playing various sports, he was discovered in high school and then flown to Manila. He led the San Beda Red Lions to three NCAA championships.

“Who would have thought that someone from a big family back in Cebu and Dumaguete who just wanted to play ball would eventually make it to the national team? I grew up trying volleyball and athletics, but my heart remains with basketball. I am so thankful and humbled for the experience. As part of Gilas Pilipinas, I look forward to making not just Cebu and Dumaguete proud but more so the entire nation,” said Oftana.

RR Pogoy

Pogoy, a University of Cebu alumnus from Talisay, is another proud Cebuano now making it big in the pros. Starting as a role player in college at the Far Eastern University, he grew into one of the PBA’s top stars with the TNT Tropang Giga, while joining Gilas Pilipinas in the 2023 FIBA World Cup.

“Cebu is ever passionate about basketball, and playing here has toughened up my game. This experience helped me grow as a player, as I adapted my playstyle to any system, whether it be the UAAP, the PBA, or as part of the national team,” said Pogoy. “I am just so thrilled to be back to where I started!”

Kib Montalbo

Montalbo, while hailing from neighboring Bacolod, is no stranger to the contribution of Cebu to basketball. The former two-time UAAP champion from De La Salle University already faced top prospects in the region back in the junior ranks. He would also go toe-to-toe against Oftana and Pogoy in both the collegiate and professional levels, before playing alongside them as part of TNT Tropang Giga.

“Playing in Cebu offers a different intensity that basketball lovers should witness!” said Montalbo, who went to St. John's Institute in high school. “I am so honored as well to be part of my Cebuano teammates’ homecoming – it’s always a joy seeing athletes be back to where they began. I am as inspired as they are, so sending our love to Cebu! What a homecoming!”

Fiber Fastbreak series

Next to Cebu, the PLDT Home Fiber Fastbreak series makes its stop in Davao on April 27 and in Imus and Manila in May – promising to bring more local basketball stars to celebrate the sport with more communities. To culminate the series, the last leg happening inside SM Megamall will feature a constellation of stars from Gilas Pilipinas, TNT Tropang Giga, and more club and collegiate teams all paying it forward to the next generation of basketball players with a camp and a tournament.

Enough said: Basketball is the most celebrated sports in the Philippines, with Filipinos among the biggest viewers and consumers of the NBA. During the 2022-2023 season alone, the world’s most popular basketball league recorded 923 million digital engagements in the country. These numbers rank the Philippines third in terms of global audiences watching the games on free and premium TV channels, and second when it comes to NBA League Pass subscriptions in the Asia-Pacific region.

Inspired by Filipinos’ undeniable love of the game and just in time for the NBA Playoffs, PLDT Home is offering a promo for new Fiber customers. From April 1, 2024 to May 31, 2024, new applicants of the Fiber Unli All 2099 plan will be awarded a complimentary one-month NBA League Pass they can use to catch more live games, more live moments – right inside the comforts of their home.

Get your basketball fix and catch more NBA action with NBA League Pass via PLDT Home. Sign up for a PLDT Home Fiber Unli All 2099 plan and above to enjoy a complimentary one-month NBA League Pass subscription! To learn more, visit https://pldthome.com/fiber.

Red Bull Half Court is back in Cebu! Get ready to witness an electrifying display of athleticism, skill, and determination as the Red Bull Half Court Cebu Qualifiers tip off on March 9, 2024, at Sisters of Mary School - Girlstown in Talisay. The winning team will advance to the National Qualifiers for a chance to compete in New York City for the World Finals.

Members of the media are invited to attend and cover this adrenaline-pumping event. Capture the passion and intensity of the players as they leave it all on the court in pursuit of victory.

What is Red Bull Half Court

Red Bull Half Court is a unique basketball tournament that showcases the best streetballers from over 28 countries worldwide. The competition is designed for young and aspiring ballers who want to bring their skills to a global stage. The tournament features a 3-on-3 format following FIBA’s basketball rules.

About Red Bull

Red Bull gives wings to people and ideas. As a functional beverage, we give wings to people by vitalizing the body and mind – supporting their dreams and aspirations through their passion for sports.

For more information and updates regarding the upcoming Red Bull Half Court, visit the official Red Bull website or Red Bull Half Court page, and the following social media pages (Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Tiktok)