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The inauguration was attended by national and local government leaders, including Cristina Roque, Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry; Pamela Baricuatro, Governor of Cebu Province; Ace Durano, Cebu Provincial Administrator; Nito Durano, Mayor of Danao City; and Carmen Durano, Vice Mayor of Danao City.

Milestone Facility for a High-Growth Region

The Danao facility is the fourth—and largest—Jollibee Group commissary in Cebu and its first multi-brand, state-of-the-art commissary in the Philippines. It comes at a time of accelerating economic momentum in VisMin, driven by a strong tourism rebound, the rise of BPO hubs, expanding agribusiness exports, and growing manufacturing clusters—factors that continue to drive employment, consumer spending, and demand across the region.

Outfitted with advanced automation and integrated systems, the commissary is designed to support increasing demand across multiple Jollibee Group brands while generating efficiencies by consolidating equipment and production capabilities. This allows the Group to scale responsibly while upholding its standards for food quality, consistency, and operational excellence.

Supporting Brand Expansion and Same-Store Growth

The Danao Commissary supplies key ingredients and products for the Group’s major brands, including Jollibee, Chowking, Mang Inasal, Greenwich, Red Ribbon, and Burger King. These brands continue to expand their store networks in VisMin while sustaining same-store sales growth.

The facility strengthens the Group’s supply chain by supporting distribution centers serving Cebu, Iloilo, Bacolod, Zamboanga, Cagayan de Oro, and Davao, as well as select areas in Luzon—ensuring reliability and scalability as the company accelerates its nationwide expansion.

Economic Impact

Speaking during the program, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina Roque highlighted the broader economic impact of the investment.

“Every new commissary that the Jollibee Group opens represents more jobs, more security, and more growth for our local industries,” Roque said. “As we open more commissaries, we are also encouraging more investments in our country while strengthening our supply chain.”

Speaking at the inauguration, Joseph Tanbuntiong, Chief Executive Officer of Jollibee Group Philippines and Global Head of Jollibee Brand, underscored the strategic importance of the new facility to both the company’s domestic and global growth.

“The opening of the Danao Commissary is both a reflection of our journey and a new beginning,” Tanbuntiong said. “Accelerating our growth by building on the strong momentum in Visayas and Mindanao is critical to our Philippine business.”

The investment also highlights the Jollibee Group’s confidence in Cebu as a strategic hub for manufacturing and logistics.

“This commissary underscores our confidence in Cebu—its people, its capability, and its role in our growth today and in the long term,” he added.

Community Impact and Sustainability

Beyond strengthening operational capacity, the Danao Commissary is expected to deliver shared value for local communities, generating close to 500 jobs, with over 60% of the workforce coming from Danao City. At full capacity, the commissary will create 800 jobs.

Sustainability features were integrated into the facility’s design and operations in line with the Jollibee Group’s Joy for Tomorrow agenda. From Day 1 of commercial operation, the Danao Commissary operates on 99% renewable electricity from geothermal sources. It is also equipped with roof-mounted solar panels, rainwater-harvesting systems, energy-efficient equipment, and wastewater treatment systems—supporting responsible, future-ready growth.

Tanbuntiong said the inauguration marks the beginning of a shared journey among stakeholders involved in the project.

“The success of the Danao Commissary is a shared success—for Danao, for Cebu, and for the nation. Together, we are building a stronger, more inclusive, and more sustainable future.”

Hashtag: #Jollibee

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About Jollibee Group

Jollibee Foods Corporation (PSE: JFC) (the “Company”) is one of the world’s fastest-growing restaurant companies, driven by its purpose of spreading joy through superior taste. It manages and operates a portfolio that includes 19 brands (the “Jollibee Group”) with over 10,000 stores and cafés across 33 countries.

The Jollibee Group’s portfolio includes nine (9) wholly-owned brands (Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, Red Ribbon, Mang Inasal, Yonghe King, Hong Zhuang Yuan, Smashburger and Tim Ho Wan), five (5) franchised brands (Burger King, Panda Express, Yoshinoya, Common Man Coffee Roasters, and Tiong Bahru Bakery in the Philippines), and ownership stakes in other key brands like The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf (80%), Compose Coffee (70%), SuperFoods Group that operates Highlands Coffee (60%), and bubble tea brand Milksha (51%). The Company also has membership interests in Tortazo, LLC, along with Chef Rick Bayless, for Tortazo in the U.S. and in Botrista, a leader in beverage technology.

The Jollibee Group’s global sustainability agenda, Joy for Tomorrow, underscores its commitment to sustainable business practices across food safety, employee welfare, community support, good governance, and environmental responsibility, among others. These focus areas are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).

The Company has been recognized as the Philippines’ Most Admired Company by the Asian Wall Street Journal, named one of Asia’s Fab 50 Companies, and listed among Forbes’ World’s Best Employers and Top Female-Friendly Companies. The Company is also a four-time Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award recipient and featured in TIME’s World’s Best Companies and Fortune’s Southeast Asia 500 List.

To learn more about Jollibee Group, visit www.jollibeegroup.com

This year’s theme, “SEOUL LIGHTS, BIGO NIGHTS” captures the spirit of the event, where the energy of Bigo Live’s creators will illuminate Seoul. The Gala will honour the dedication and talent of the platform’s creators and families, turning each moment into a shared celebration that is both unique and unforgettable. Seoul was selected as the host city for this year’s BIGO Awards Gala as it stands at the intersection of creativity, technology and culture, reflecting the vibrant and globally connected community that Bigo Live continues to build.

The star-studded event will welcome over 1,200 global guests, including those from Asia, Europe, the Middle East, North and South America, and Africa. The festivities will begin with a public red-carpet event, offering a first glimpse into the energy and vibrancy of the event.

“Seoul’s dynamic energy is the perfect backdrop for our 2026 Gala,” said a spokesperson from Bigo Live. “‘SEOUL LIGHTS, BIGO NIGHTS’ is more than a theme, it’s a reflection of how our creators illuminate the platform with their talent and passion. We are thrilled to bring our global community together in this vibrant city to celebrate their achievements and the powerful connections they’ve built.”

The ceremony will honour over 200 content creators and families for their outstanding contributions over the past year, with winners receiving a trophy and in-app rewards, with select honourees also featured on prominent digital billboards in Gangnam’s high-profile media district, extending recognition beyond the platform.

The evening will also feature a diverse lineup of captivating performances, from live music to band shows by international artists, including special appearances by South Korean girl groups FIFTY FIFTY and tripleS, creating an immersive atmosphere where global creativity meets a shared rhythm.

As the night pulses with excitement, Bigo Live will also unveil an exclusive blind-box collection featuring its friendly mascot, mini-Dinos, bringing an extra spark of surprise to the night.

For viewers worldwide, the BIGO Awards Gala 2026 will be broadcast live on Bigo Live’s Music Live House channel (Bigo ID: music) and the official Bigo.tv website. The live broadcast will begin with the Red Carpet at 3:00 pm (GMT+9), followed by the Gala Ceremony at 7:00 pm (GMT+9). Viewers in the live room can vote for their favourite content creators and families during the gala night for three special awards: “MOST POPULAR BROADCASTER,” “MOST POPULAR FAMILY,” and “GALA STAR.”

To join Bigo Live’s global community and tune into the BIGO Awards Gala 2026, download the Bigo Live app or visit the official website. Follow Bigo Live on Facebook and Instagram for latest updates.Hashtag: #BigoLive #BIGOAwardsGala2026

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Stability is not their only concern, however; the drive toward carbon neutrality is accelerating the adoption of renewable energy and electrification. Integrating large amounts of new energy sources and managing unpredictable new loads requires flexibility from power systems.

Jason Li, President of the Marketing & Solution Sales Dept of Huawei Electric Power Digitalization BU, explained that “In the past, we relied mostly on automation to address issues in power grids. In the future, however, power grids will transform from mere transmission systems into pivotal players in the energy transition. Digitalization and AI are shifting from optional upgrades to essential elements in core power generation. Together with automation, they form the key drivers for modernizing power grids.”

He added, “We believe that deeply integrating digital technologies into power scenarios and reshaping production and operations with telecommunications and AI will enable grids to achieve both ultimate stability and flexibility.”

The large-scale integration of distributed PV, energy storage, and charging piles into the grid, coupled with growing user interaction and potential load-side transactions, presents new challenges for maintaining the balance, stability, and security of distribution networks.

“The breakthrough for future power systems lies in the distribution network,” Jason noted. “And the key to addressing distribution challenges is transparency at the 400 V low-voltage level. To achieve this, Huawei and partners have jointly developed the intelligent distribution solution (IDS) for transparent low-voltage management.”

At Mobile World Congress 2026 in Barcelona, Huawei will showcase its latest AI applications in power digitalization, including innovative solutions for intelligent power distribution, substations, and power plant inspections. To explore successful digital transformation in the power sector, visit the Huawei booth at stand 1H50, Fira Gran Via Hall 1.

Hashtag: #Huawei

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First Shell Recharge Electric School Bus Charging Station installed in CUHK

As one of the leading global energy companies, Shell continues to focus on its strategy to deliver more value with less emissions while working to become a net-zero emissions business by 2050, contributing to global decarbonisation. This year, Shell installed CUHK’s first Shell Recharge electric school bus charging station, featuring two fast chargers with a power output of 120 kW, ensuring rapid and efficient energy replenishment for CUHK’s electric school buses. At the same time, Shell consistently upholds high safety standards, with stringent controls in the design, installation, and operation of the charging station to ensure a safe and reliable electric vehicle charging experience.

Since 2018, Shell has supported CUHK’s sustainability initiatives by supplying Shell FuelSave Diesel B5 for the university’s fleet, helping reduce emissions and enhancing operational efficiency. The collaboration has expanded with the introduction of fast-charging facilities further modernises CUHK’s transportation system and accelerates the adoption of innovative low-carbon technologies. Looking ahead, Shell will continue to work with CUHK to lead the development of advanced mobility solutions and demonstrate leadership in campus sustainability.

Mr. Yew Chong Tan, General Manager of Shell Commercial Fuels East, commented, “At Shell, we are committed to working with customers and partners to provide holistic energy solutions that power progress together. The installation of this electric school bus charging station at The Chinese University of Hong Kong exemplifies our dedication to such collaboration as we navigate the energy transition.”

First Hybrid School Bus to Begin Operates at CUHK

The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) has provided CUHK with the first hybrid school bus ever deployed on a Hong Kong campus, which helps reduce diesel consumption and lower exhaust emissions compared to regular diesel coaches. When utilizing fast charging directly, it can reach an 80% battery charge in as little as 25 minutes.

Mr. Yonghai Du, Chief Innovation Officer of HKPC and General Manager, Centre of Advanced Power and Autonomous Systems (APAS), added, “This 12-meter plug-in hybrid bus is the first green transport project designed, developed, and assembled in Hong Kong by APAS, funded by the Innovation and Technology Fund and supported by our industry partners. This collaboration exemplifies the shared commitment of academia and industry to social responsibility. HKPC will continue to pioneer diverse innovative solutions, foster collaboration among ‘Government, industry, academia, research, investment, and applications’, expand the application demonstration of new technologies, products, and scenarios, and drive the transition towards green transportation.”

CUHK Advances Low-Carbon Transportation

These two major initiatives not only highlight CUHK’s dedication to sustainable development but also set a new standard for environmentally conscious transformation in transportation across Hong Kong.

Mr. Simon Lee, Director of Security and Transport at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, stated, “CUHK is committed to promoting sustainable development and embedding environmental protection principles within daily campus operations. By installing the EV charging station and introducing the hybrid campus bus, we aim to offer convenient transportation for staff and students while reducing carbon emissions and achieving low-carbon mobility. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Shell for its strong support of the charging station project and to the Hong Kong Productivity Council for its professional assistance in introducing the hybrid campus bus, enabling us to jointly drive campus transportation toward a new green milestone.”

Hashtag: #Shell #CUHK #ElectricBusChargingStation

https://www.shell.com.hk/

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SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 January 2026 – Madame Tussauds Singapore hosted an exclusive fan meet event on 16 January 2026, featuring international music and entertainment icon AGNEZ MO, bringing fans up close with the superstar in an intimate and memorable setting.

The special appearance marked a meaningful reunion between AGNEZ MO and her wax figure, which was first unveiled at Madame Tussauds Singapore in 2022. The fan meet offered a rare opportunity for fans to reconnect with the multi-talented artist while celebrating her continued global success.

Hashtag: #MerlinEntertainments #MadameTussaudsSingapore

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Madame Tussauds Singapore

Madame Tussauds has been inviting people to walk the red carpet and get closer to the revered – and feared – for over 250 years. With 22 attractions in the world’s top destination cities, we are dedicated to giving millions of visitors the opportunity to mingle with the mighty from A-listers to music legends, heroes of sport, to infamous world leaders. Today, we continue to partner with the global icons of a generation to create astonishing lifelike figures from sittings and offer exciting and interactive experiences to ensure guests have never felt closer to fame.

Merlin Entertainments is a world leader in branded entertainment destinations, offering a diverse portfolio of resort theme parks, city-centre gateway attractions and LEGOLAND Resorts which span across UK, US, Western Europe, China and Asia Pacific. Dedicated to creating experiences that inspire joy and connection, Merlin welcomes more than 62 million guests annually to its growing estate, with over 140 sites across 23 countries. An expert in bringing world-famous entertainment brands to life, Merlin works with partners including the LEGO Group, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Peppa Pig, Dreamworks and Ferrari to create destinations where guests can immerse themselves in a wide array of brand-driven worlds, rides, and uplifting learning experiences. See www.merlinentertainments.biz for more information.

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan arrived in New Delhi on a working visit, marking another step in the steady expansion of political, economic and strategic ties between Abu Dhabi and New Delhi. He was received at the Palam Air Base by Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi, accompanied by senior members of the Union Cabinet and officials from the external affairs establishment, underscoring the importance both sides attach to the engagement.

The visit places renewed focus on deepening UAE–India partnership at a time when bilateral cooperation spans trade, energy security, technology, defence and people-to-people exchanges. Officials said discussions during the visit would review progress under existing agreements while identifying new areas for collaboration aligned with long-term economic and geopolitical priorities.

The UAE and India have built a close relationship over the past decade, anchored by high-level political engagement and sustained institutional cooperation. The elevation of ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has provided a framework for collaboration across sectors, with regular leader-level interactions helping to maintain momentum. Sheikh Mohamed and Prime Minister Modi have met frequently on the margins of multilateral forums and through bilateral visits, creating a rapport that has translated into concrete outcomes.

Trade and investment remain central to the agenda. Bilateral non-oil trade has expanded significantly following the implementation of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, which reduced tariffs, simplified customs procedures and opened services markets. Officials on both sides view the agreement as a catalyst for further growth, particularly in manufacturing, logistics, food security and digital services. The UAE has also emerged as a major investor, with sovereign and private capital flowing into infrastructure, renewable energy, ports and technology ventures.

Energy cooperation continues to be a pillar of the relationship. The UAE is a key supplier of crude oil and liquefied natural gas, while joint investments in strategic petroleum reserves and downstream assets have added depth to the partnership. As both countries pursue energy transition goals, collaboration has widened to include renewables, green hydrogen and climate technology, reflecting shared commitments to sustainability and diversification.

Defence and security cooperation has gained prominence amid evolving regional and global challenges. Regular joint exercises, intelligence exchanges and defence industrial cooperation have strengthened interoperability and trust. Counter-terrorism, maritime security and cyber resilience are areas where officials see scope for closer coordination, particularly given the shared interest in stable sea lanes and secure digital infrastructure.

Technology and innovation feature prominently in the discussions. The UAE’s push to position itself as a hub for advanced technologies aligns with New Delhi’s focus on digital public infrastructure, fintech and start-up ecosystems. Partnerships between research institutions, technology firms and start-ups have expanded, supported by policy initiatives and investment platforms designed to facilitate cross-border collaboration.

The large expatriate community also shapes the relationship. Millions of people from India live and work in the UAE, contributing to its economy and cultural diversity, while remittances and professional exchanges strengthen social and economic links. During past engagements, leaders have highlighted the role of this community as a bridge between the two nations, with initiatives aimed at skills development, worker welfare and cultural exchange.

On the multilateral front, both countries coordinate positions on regional stability, economic governance and climate action. Cooperation within forums such as the G20, where the UAE has participated as a guest under New Delhi’s presidency, has reinforced alignment on development priorities, debt relief for vulnerable economies and sustainable growth.

Officials familiar with the visit said meetings would assess progress on commitments made during earlier engagements and set timelines for new initiatives. Agreements and memoranda of understanding under consideration span sectors including education, healthcare, space cooperation and financial services, reflecting the breadth of the partnership.

A Milestone in Sustainable Operations & Facility Management

Storefriendly stated: “Achieving this Excellent rating reinforces our commitment to ESG goals. By optimizing our operations management, we ensure that our self-storage facilities are not only efficient but also environmentally responsible, providing our customers with a superior and greener storage experience.”

Selective Scheme Focuses on Building Performance Across Key Assessment Areas

BEAM Plus EB reviews a building’s sustainability performance through multiple assessment areas, including Site, Management, Materials & Waste, Energy Use, Water, Indoor Environmental Quality, and Innovation. Within these, the Management aspect places strong emphasis on responsible management practices and measures that promote the sustainable operation of building spaces. Achieving an Excellent rating in this aspect further validates Storefriendly’s ongoing investment and results in day-to-day operations management and its broader sustainability strategy.

Integrating Smart Technology with Green Logistics

Storefriendly continues to invest in cutting-edge technology—including AI-powered customer service systems and Safety Box. By combining smart access controls with energy-efficient facility management, the Group enhances both security and operational performance. This HKGBC recognition serves as a roadmap for the Group’s future, as it strives to modernize the mini storage industry with forward-thinking, sustainable solutions for both personal and business clients.

The following five Storefriendly Tower properties have been certified by HKGBC and included in the Existing Buildings portfolio assessment:
1. Storefriendly Tower (Peninsula East): 82 Hung To Road, Kwun Tong
2. Storefriendly Tower (Metropolis East): 13 Yip Cheong Street, Fanling, New Territories
3. Storefriendly Tower (Island East): 8 A Kung Ngam Village Road, Shau Kei Wan
4. Storefriendly Tower (Peninsula West): 850-870 Lai Chi Kok Road, Cheung Sha Wan
5. Storefriendly Tower (Metropolis West): 22-28 Tai Chung Road, Tsuen Wan

Hashtag: #Storefriendly

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About Storefriendly Self Storage Group

Founded in 2002, Storefriendly Self Storage Group is one of Asia’s leading self-storage brands, with operations across Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore, and Taiwan. The Group operates over 90 branches and more than 40,000 storage units. Over half of its branches are self-owned properties, conveniently located and equipped with 24-hour smart access and comprehensive security systems, providing safe and flexible storage solutions for both individual and business customers. The Group continues to invest in technology—including AI-powered customer service, wine storage, and smart safety boxes—to elevate service quality through innovation and deliver an enhanced storage experience.

Visit Storefriendly: https://www.store-friendly.com/en/