On day one, rush for GCash IPO shares briefly trips up trading systems

Rappler - Oct 7, 2026

'I heard some platforms went down because of the traffic. That’s a good problem for all of us, right?' Mynt president and CEO Martha Sazon tells a room full of potential GCash investors hours after the public offer formally opened

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ECHO clarifies speculations surrounding member Sphere's death

Oct 7, 2026

ECHO clarifies speculations surrounding member Sphere's death

P-pop boy group ECHO is mourning the loss of its member Jaspher Cabangon, professionally known as Sphere, who passed away on October 4. Sphere's management announced his death on Monday, October 5, asking the public to respect the privacy of his family, loved ones, and fellow members as they grieve. No cause of death was disclosed in the initial announcement. Prior to the news of his passing, ECHO had informed fans that Sphere would be taking a temporary break from the group's activities after being hospitalized. On Tuesday, October 6, ECHO released another statement addressing the speculation that had surfaced online regarding Sphere's death. The group appealed to the public to avoid making assumptions or sharing information that had not been confirmed by his family or management. "A gentle reminder to everyone: As requested by Sphere's family, we kindly ask everyone to refrain from making assumptions, speculating, or spreading unverified information regarding the cause of his passing," ECHO said. "We ask everyone to respect his family's request for privacy during this difficult time and allow them the space they need. Let us honor Sphere's memory with respect, compassion, and understanding." ECHO concluded its statement by thanking fans and the public for respecting the family's wishes during this difficult period. Sphere was one of the eight members of ECHO, a P-pop boy group composed of Eoj, Aerys, Josh, Ming, James, Rhency, Raf, and Sphere. Before announcing his passing, the group had asked fans to continue praying for Sphere and wishing him a safe recovery while he was hospitalized. In its earlier announcement, ECHO said Sphere would be taking a temporary break from all group activities "until further notice" as he focused on his recovery. The group had also assured fans that further updates regarding his condition and possible return to activities would be shared when appropriate. Following the news of his death, ECHO and its management are now asking the public to give Sphere's family the privacy and space they need as they mourn his passing. Meanwhile, here are some celebrities we lost and stars who lost their loved ones in 2026: