Monday, December 30, 2024

Bears of Joy Bring Holiday Cheer to Children with Special Needs in SM Valenzuela & SM Grand Central

SM City Valenzuela volunteer proudly hands an SM Bear of Joy to a child with disability. The mall contributed 700 bears, matched by SM City Grand Central, totaling 1,400 plush toys for children with special needs and PWDs.

In a season marked by joy and giving, SM Malls in Grand Central and Valenzuela closed 2024 on a heartwarming note with their annual Bears of Joy donation, bringing smiles to children with special needs and persons with disabilities. The campaign, which underscores SM’s commitment to community upliftment, saw the donation of 1,400 plush toys to various beneficiaries across Caloocan and Valenzuela.

SM City Valenzuela spearheaded the effort, contributing 700 bears, while SM City Grand Central added 700 to the tally. The plushies—adorable oval-shaped companions inspired by the viral Squishmallow trend—were distributed to beneficiaries such as Valenzuela’s Persons with Disability Affairs Office and the Alliance of PWD in Caloocan City Inc.

An SM volunteer lights up the day of a child with disability by gifting an SM Bear of Joy. SM City Valenzuela and SM City Grand Central ended the year on a heartwarming note, donating 1,400 plush toys to children with special needs and persons with disabilities.

SM City Grand Central Mall Manager Von Aaron Tan personally hands an SM Bear of Joy to a person with special needs. The annual Bears of Joy initiative brought smiles to 1,400 recipients, as SM City Grand Central and SM City Valenzuela shared the gift of giving to the PWD community.

For the children who received them, the Bears of Joy were more than just toys—they became symbols of hope and love. Each plushie represents the spirit of the holiday season and the Filipino tradition of bayanihan, fostering a sense of belonging and care for the less privileged.

The initiative was spearheaded by SM Cares, Toy Kingdom, and SM Supermalls, reinforcing the collective power of compassion. The program also reflects the profound impact of collective goodwill, proving that small gestures of kindness can leave lasting imprints on the lives of those who need it most.

Saturday, December 28, 2024

Allianz PNB Life Health Fest Empowers Filipinos to Be Proactive in Securing their Future

Gino Riola, Chief Marketing Officer of Allianz PNB Life, emphasizes the importance of holistic wellness with the Allianz Healthbox

Filipinos dream big—not just for themselves, but for their families. To achieve these aspirations, they need a partner who cares about their well-being, one who helps them enjoy the present while preparing for a bright tomorrow. In line with this mission to secure every Filipino’s future, Allianz PNB Life (AZPNBL) hosted the first insurance industry-led wellness event dubbed as  Healthbox Health Fest 2024 in Makati City, reaffirming its commitment to holistic wellness that integrates mental, physical, and financial health.

The event highlighted how Allianz Healthbox supports AZPNBL policyholders by offering exclusive perks and benefits for their healthcare, lifestyle, and wellness needs. Through this, Allianz empowers Filipinos to lead healthier, more secure lives.

“As a global insurance company, we recognize that healthcare is integral to life protection. Beyond securing our client’s future, we want them to enjoy life. This is why healthcare has always been a part of our global focus, ensuring that our clients have access to the best services through our protection products,” said Gino Riola, Chief Marketing Officer of AZPNBL. “Healthbox, alongside our carefully selected partners, connects customers with health and wellness providers for their diverse needs—all in one place. This is how we help them do more for their health.”

Live Life to the Fullest

One of the event’s key moments was the launch of Allianz Secure PRO, a flexible and long-term financial security solution designed to support Filipinos at every stage of life. Allianz Secure PRO addresses the need for financial protection while empowering policyholders to navigate life’s milestones with assurance.

Leo Tan, Chief Product Provider Officer of Allianz PNB Life, introduces Allianz Secure PRO, a long-term, customizable life protection solution designed to support Filipinos at every stage of life.

“Allianz Secure PRO extends life protection up to the age of 100, offering policyholders peace of mind about their long-term financial security,” explained Leo Tan, Chief Product Provider Officer at AZPNBL. “What makes this product unique is its customizable feature, allowing clients to prioritize what matters most to them. It’s a testament to our dedication to making our products more relevant and impactful.”

Coupled with Allianz Healthbox, Allianz Secure PRO provides a comprehensive approach to achieving financial stability and personal well-being, enabling Filipinos to enjoy life to the fullest.

Leading the way to Holistic Wellness in the Philippines

The Allianz Healthbox Health Fest exemplified AZPNBL’s dedication to holistic wellness by bringing together over 26 Healthbox partners to showcase the diverse range of health and wellness solutions. Co-presenting partners included Childfam-Possibilities, Asian Eye Institute, Charm by Joel Lopez, MD, Urban Smiles, Nurture Wellness Village, Vision Express, Pharex, Tamang Alaga, United Home, Centre Medicale Internationale, Kindred, Sage Dermatology, and mWell by Metro Pacific. Event sponsors are  Eye Can Philippines, Summit, Wellnessible, Shinagawa Lasik & Aesthetics, Shinagawa Diagnostic & Preventive Care, Waters Philippines Inc., HDE Volleyball Academy, PNB, Pure Nectar, Eluvo Health, Asianskymall, Jinio, and Argonix. “We are grateful to be part of the Allianz Healthbox Health Fest because we got to meet other wellness businesses. It was a good experience to be in the same event with companies who share our belief that wellness is key to enjoy life,” said Samantha Lucas, Marketing Manager of Nurture Wellness.

Participants at the Allianz Healthbox Health Fest engaging with partners’ booths and interactive activities that promote holistic well-being.

Attendees had the chance to boost their well-being through free health services and raffle featuring health products and services from participating partners, totaling over Php 500,000 in value. Among the prizes was a LASIK procedure worth Php 140,000 from Shinagawa Lasik & Aesthetics.Wellness partner, Vision Express, offered free eye check-ups during the event. “Partnership with Allianz PNB Life allows us to push further our mission to empower patients to take proactive steps in maintaining optimal vision and overall eye health. We want clients to know their present eye health and catch potential issues early on,” Ms. Neelam Gopwani, Managing Director of Vision Express. 

“Our first-ever insurance-led wellness event reflects our deep commitment to our customers’ holistic well-being,” Riola said. “We’re proud to have made meaningful connections with thousands of participants both on-ground and online. This is just the beginning of our journey to raise awareness about securing health and financial stability to enjoy the present and face the future with confidence.”

Allianz PNB Life remains steadfast in its mission to be a trusted partner in every Filipino’s journey. To learn more about Allianz Healthbox and explore how Allianz Secure PRO can help secure your future, visit www.allianzpnblife.ph.

Uratex Monoblock: Built for the Holidays, Made to Last a Lifetime

From left to right: Uratex Monoblock Enna Chair & Charlotte Armchair

Filipino families are known for their festive spirit, often beginning their holiday celebrations even before December. This love for celebrating— even the smallest of occasions reflects the deep joy and togetherness that define the true Filipino culture. From delicious feasts to thoughtful gifts, and even transforming the smallest corners of their homes into festive spaces, these efforts are all about creating special memories with their loved ones. 

As homes and outdoor spaces become the heart of gathering spots for family celebrations, having the right furniture is essential for keeping everyone comfortable and relaxed during this festive season. That’s where Uratex Monoblock comes in, offering durable, high-quality plastic furniture that’s built to last. Strong enough to handle any celebration, Uratex Monoblock helps Filipino families host worry-free gatherings year after year. Whether it’s a Christmas dinner, a New Year’s barbecue, or even a community gathering, these sturdy and stylish chairs and tables are designed for every occasion.

Certified with BPS and ISO Level 5, Uratex Monoblock guarantees strength and reliability, making it a smart choice for families who value furniture that is safe, durable, and built to last with style. Uratex Monoblock is built to last—engineered to support weight and withstand wear and tear, making it perfect for celebrations of any size. It offers great value for money, combining durability and affordability for years of use. Perfect for both indoor and outdoor spaces, Uratex Monoblock will complement any festive setup. With a variety of colors and designs, it will surely fit seamlessly into any theme or décor, helping Filipinos create the ideal holiday celebration.

Uratex Monoblock Louis Folding Table

“Filipinos cherish moments spent with family and friends, especially during the holidays. We want to be part of your celebrations by offering furniture that's not only practical but also reliable and aesthetically pleasing. With Uratex Monoblock, you can relax and enjoy every moment, knowing your gatherings are supported by the best.” said Mr. Dindo Medina, Business Unit Director of Uratex Monoblock.

This holiday season, #BawalAngMarupok! Don’t settle for anything less than the best and let Uratex Monoblock bring strength, comfort, and style to your celebrations, making every gathering a moment to remember. With Uratex Monoblock, Filipino families can truly ‘chair-ish’ every holiday moment in comfort and style. 

Uratex Monoblock chairs and tables are available at leading furniture retailers, department stores, and online marketplaces nationwide. Make sure your home is celebration-ready by choosing Uratex Monoblock for your furniture needs.

For more information on Uratex and its products, visit https://uratex.com.ph/collections/monoblocs.

Friday, December 27, 2024

Darigold Milk Returns to the Philippines!

Darigold milk, a beloved brand from the 1950s-70s, is back in the Philippines!  Filipino families will once again enjoy this creamy, nutritious milk, bringing back cherished memories for older generations and introducing a healthy option to younger ones.

A Taste of Home

Darigold was a staple in many Filipino homes, featured in breakfasts and snacks.  Dan Hofmeister, President of Darigold Milk’s B2C Division, expressed excitement about reintroducing this quality milk to a new generation.

More Than Just Milk

Darigold's return aims to empower Filipinos to live fulfilling lives.  The brand is committed to being a reliable part of daily routines, supporting families in their daily adventures.  Hofmeister emphasized Darigold's mission to make a positive impact on Filipino lives.

Quality You Can Trust

Darigold boasts nearly 100 years of history, starting in Seattle and sourced from 300 family farms.  Its modern facilities and sustainable practices ensure fresh, high-quality milk from farm to fridge.  

Find Darigold Today!

Darigold milk is now available at AllDay Supermarket, both in-store and online at www.allday.com.ph.

Join the Gold Getter Community!

Darigold invites everyone to join its "Gold Getter" community. Share your story using #DarigoldGoldGetters on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube (@DarigoldPhilippines).

Enjoy the creamy goodness of Darigold milk and cheers to a healthier, happier future!

Monday, December 23, 2024

How to keep it fit and festive this holiday season with Century Tuna

 

The holidays are not just a time of gift-giving but also a time for festive feasts with family and friends. It’s a time where everyone gets the chance to prepare their special recipes and devour their favorite dishes in one sitting.

Century Tuna, with its extensive flavor offerings, makes it easy to incorporate into various holiday recipes, ensuring your Noche Buena and Media Noche celebrations have delicious, satisfying meals that everyone will love. Packed with Omega 3 DHA that’s good for the heart and mind, Century Tuna is also low in cholesterol and has no preservatives added, ensuring that you can prioritize your health and fitness even during the holiday season.

Creamy tuna pesto made with Century Tuna Flakes in Oil

For pesto lovers, you can never go wrong with Century Tuna Flakes in Oil. Simply whip up your favorite pesto sauce and combine it with the tuna and you have an easy pesto recipe that never compromises in taste. You can season to your heart’s desire and even add extra creaminess with parmesan cheese to transform the dish.

Tuna lumpiang shanghai made with Century Tuna Hot and Spicy

Instead of the usual pork giniling, you can also spice up your classic lumpiang shanghai recipe with Century Tuna Hot and Spicy. Mix in familiar ingredients like chopped carrots with sliced mushrooms and a cheese of choice and you have yourself a special holiday lumpia recipe that can be the star of your holiday feast. If you want more spice, you can even chop up some siling labuyo to add to your recipe for that extra kick that all Filipinos love.

Paella made with Century Tuna Chunks Spanish Style

Are you up to serving your family and guests some umami flavor? Why not try cooking seafood paella with Century Tuna? Century Tuna Chunks Spanish Style is the perfect ingredient to add depth and flavor to your meal as it blends perfectly with the flavor profiles of mixed veggies, seafood, and chorizo. Just garnish with toppings of your choice and you can have a healthy and hearty meal for family and friends.

Sandwich made with Century Tuna with Calamansi. Photo by Freepik.

If you’re looking into creating some light snacks or appetizers for the holidays, Century Tuna ambassador Richard Gomez has the perfect tuna sandwich recipe. Using Century Tuna with Calamansi, he prepares the tuna with mayonnaise, yogurt, white onions, and a squeeze of lemon. Add parmesan for that cheesy flavor and celery for the extra crunch and you get a refreshing sandwich to pair with your classic holiday dishes.

Brown Rice with Century Tuna Chunks in Vegetable Oil. Photo by Freepik.

If you want a break from festive dishes and keep it simple but healthy, you can always opt for Century Tuna ambassador Aga Muhlach’s favorite way of getting his protein fix. Simply add Century Tuna Chunks in Vegetable Oil to warm brown rice. You won’t need any extra fanfare, it’s a healthy palate cleanser that can help you reset and stay energized for any holiday activity.

This holiday season, Century Tuna is the perfect partner to elevate your Noche Buena and Media Noche with family and friends. Offering a variety of versatile, nutritious meal options, it allows you to enjoy festive celebrations without compromising your fitness goals. 

May it be with Goma’s refreshing tuna sandwich recipe or Aga’s simple but healthy meal, with Century Tuna, you can start your #JourneytoSuperbod any time of the year. Even during the holiday season with elaborate feasts served for celebrations, there’s no best time to start your fitness journey, but now.

For more information and recipes, please visit https://centurytuna.ph/ or visit Century Tuna on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/centurytuna or @centurytunasuperbods on Instagram for more updates.

Kathryn Bernardo shares how she's making her Christmas more special and 'panalo'

Fresh from the blockbuster success of her recent movie, "Hello, Love, Again," TNT KaTropa Kathryn Bernardo is looking to make Christmas extra special by spending the holidays with her family.

“Ang importante naman ay ‘yung makakasama mo sa Pasko. We’ll keep it very simple, so you’re hopefully surrounded with love and good energy, and sana ‘yun yung makuha ko this year. This will be our first Christmas in our new house so nandito kami Christmas at New Year,” she said.

Kathryn revealed that this Christmas will be all about a simple dinner, exchange of gifts, and a family photo shot in their first Christmas in their new home.

“Hindi na kami makikipagsabay sa mga umaalis na tao this year. The past few months medyo dire-diretso ang work ko so I just want to stay home, get some rest, and then bond with my family. We’ll keep it very simple,” she said.

Kathryn’s ideal Christmas would not be complete if she couldn’t get hold of her friends and loved ones abroad, so she relies on her phone to easily stay connected through messages, impromptu catchups via video calls, and sharing of photos and videos real-time.

"We're very lucky dahil using our smartphones, it's so much easier now to get in touch with our KaTropas and loved ones to share the warmth of our love this Christmas - anytime and anywhere," Kathryn said.

"Sa simpleng pag-share ng greetings, stories, video messages, pwedeng gawing panalo ang Pasko kasama ang mga mahal natin sa buhay," she added.

Now, TNT subscribers around the country also have more reasons to connect with their  KaTropas this Christmas because the more they load up TNT SAYA ALL 99, the more entries they can earn and accumulate in the ongoing TNT Paskong Panalo Raffle Promo.

TNT subscribers have until Dec. 28 to join the exciting promo for a chance to be among the 5 lucky winners of Php1 million each in the grand raffle draw (TNT will draw one grand winner each from North and Central Luzon; NCR; South Luzon; Visayas; and Mindanao), making their Christmas extra special and memorable.  To join, TNT subscribers may simply text “RAFFLE” to 5858 and load TNT SAYA ALL 99.

Learn more about TNT Paskong Panalo at https://tntph.com/Pages/paskongpanalo2024.

Saturday, December 21, 2024

Holiday Feasting Made Easy with Noche Buena Food Ideas at SM

 

The holiday season calls for a lot of reconnecting and getting together. While it's almost true that the Philippines has the longest celebration of Christmas, it goes without saying that gatherings during this season won’t be complete without the traditional Noche Buena feast. As such, here’s a rundown of some dishes—from classic to modern—that you may find at SM malls in Marilao, Baliwag, and Pulilan. 

Ready your list and make sure to fill your table with any of these well-loved delicacies:

Pinoy Favorite Lumpiang Shanghai

Nothing beats a classic Filipino favorite—Lumpiang Shanghai. Imagine these crispy spring rolls filled with an appetizing mixture of meat, vegetables, and spices, dipped in a sweet and sour sauce. Grab these at Gerry’s Grill for a worthwhile Noche Buena feast.

Traditional Queso de Bola

A traditional treat everybody loves during Noche Buena, Queso de Bola is considered the ‘versatile’ cheese that goes well with variety of foods, including crackers, bread, fruit, and nuts. Premium Queso de Bola selections are available at SM Hypermarket. 

Crispy Lechon Belly 

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Noche Buena wouldn’t be complete without the drool-worthy Lechon Belly. This Christmas, a perfectly roasted and juicy Lechon Belly from S.A.L.O deserves a spot at your dining table.

Christmas Ham

A staple during holidays, Noche Buena wouldn’t be as festive if Christmas Ham ain’t around. Made with tender cuts of pork, lightly cured and smoked, the perfect balance of salty, sweet and smoky notes warms heart this Yuletide season. Get your Christmas Ham only at SM Hypermarket. 

Tender Beef Caldereta 

A classic main course in every Noche Buena, Beef Caldereta made with tender beef chunks, vegetables, and rich tomato-based sauce always satisfies anyone’s palate. For a hassle-free feast, order a sumptuous Beef Caldereta at Kuya J. 

Classic Ube Cake 

One of the desserts probably close to Pinoy’s heart is the classic Ube Cake. Made with locally sourced ingredients such as purple yam, this decadent treat is a sweet finale for Noche Buena. Experience the delightful goodness of Ube Cake at Caramia Cakes & Gelato. 

Creamy Leche Flan

Another classic dessert almost everyone loves during Noche Buena is the smooth and creamy Leche Flan. Try Conti’s special Leche Flan recipe this holiday season.

Whatever your plans are this coming Noche Buena, SM Bulacan malls definitely have all the perfect food selections to keep you company. For updates on holiday mall hours and offerings, visit the official Facebook pages of SM City Marilao, SM City Baliwag, and SM Center Pulilan.

Thursday, December 19, 2024

SM's ChriSMiles 2024: Spreading Holiday Cheer to Over 100 Children in Caloocan and Valenzuela

A child embraced SM City Grand Central Mall Manager Alpha Hernandez, beaming with joy as they received gifts during SM City Grand Central and SM Center Sangandaan’s ChriSMiles event.

SM Supermalls brought the magic of Christmas to over 100 underprivileged children in Caloocan and Valenzuela cities through its annual ChriSMiles initiative.  Just days before Christmas, SM City Grand Central, SM Center Sangandaan, and SM City Valenzuela joined forces to create unforgettable holiday memories for children and their families.

SM City Grand Central and SM Center Sangandaan partnered with Bountiful Children’s Foundation Philippines to bring joyful holiday memories to 50 children from Brgy. 176, Bagong Silang, North Caloocan.
With big smiles, children proudly raised their Bears of Joy plushies during SM City Grand Central and SM Center Sangandaan’s ChriSMiles celebration.

In Caloocan, a partnership with Bountiful Children’s Foundation Philippines resulted in a heartwarming celebration for 50 children from Barangay 176, Bagong Silang.  The children, aged 1 to 5, enjoyed a festive meal, received hygiene kits, and delighted in plush toys, thanks to the generosity of SM employees and tenant partners like Fantasy World and Tom’s World.

Meanwhile, in Valenzuela, SM City Valenzuela spread holiday cheer among the children of its own janitorial and security personnel.  The children experienced the joy of free play at Kidzoona, received gifts, and shared a special Christmas meal with their families.

SM City Valenzuela Assistant Mall Manager Kristine Joyce Pimentel hands out loot bags and toys, bringing smiles to all during the ChriSMiles event. 

Children proudly display their Bears of Joy at the Valenzuela ChriSMiles event.

ChriSMiles is more than just gifts and meals; it's about making children feel loved and celebrated during the holiday season.  The initiative highlights the dedication of SM employees who generously contributed both time and resources to make this event possible.

Children enjoyed hours of fun and free play at Kidzoona during SM City Valenzuela’s ChriSMiles event.

Shella Marie Vito, Senior Human Resources Manager, shared, "This event truly embodies the spirit of Christmas – giving and bringing joy to those who need it most.  We're incredibly grateful for the support from our employees and partners; their kindness creates a lasting impact."

ChriSMiles underscores SM Supermalls' commitment to community and compassion, demonstrating that the true joy of Christmas lies in sharing with others.  The laughter of the children and the kindness of the volunteers serve as a beacon of hope and goodwill, perfectly capturing the spirit of the season.

Converge ICT's "Countdown to Zero Waste 3.0": Boosting Sustainability Through Proper Waste Segregation

Converge recently launched the third phase of its zero waste movement which focuses on segregating wastes properly, in line with the existing ordinance of Pasig. IN PHOTO (from left): Converge Chief Commercial Officer and Chief Sustainability Officer Benjamin Azada, Converge President and Co-Founder Maria Grace Uy, Converge VP and Head of Corporate Communications and Public Relations Jay-Anne Encarnado, and Converge VP and Acting Head of People & Culture Group Erwin Dotimas. 

Converge ICT Solutions Inc., a leading fiber broadband and technology provider in the Philippines, is accelerating its commitment to environmental sustainability with the launch of "Countdown to Zero Waste 3.0." This initiative focuses on enhancing waste segregation practices across its offices, aiming for zero landfill waste by 2030.

This third phase introduces a three-category waste segregation system: biodegradable, residual, and special waste.  This aligns with Pasig City regulations, where Converge's headquarters are located, and maximizes reuse, recycling, and recovery efforts.

Converge's dedication to sustainability extends beyond its own operations. The company has partnered with Alon and Araw, a Zambales-based non-profit organization, to upcycle plastic waste.  Converge will donate collected plastic bottles, and even source its new trash bins from Alon and Araw's upcycled products, supporting their mission of helping underprivileged coastal communities while tackling marine pollution.

Furthering its commitment to circularity, Converge collaborates with Humble, a local climate technology company, to recycle and resell discarded IT equipment.

Converge Chief Commercial Officer and Chief Sustainability Officer Benjamin Azada. 

"Our commitment is to provide essential broadband access while minimizing our environmental impact," stated Converge Chief Commercial Officer and Chief Sustainability Officer Benjamin Azada. "Achieving zero waste to landfill by 2030 is a key sustainability target, and this improved waste management is a crucial step." 

Converge VP and Head of Corporate Communications and Public Relations Jay-Anne Encarnado added, "We've worked closely with Pasig City to ensure compliance while advancing our environmental goals.  Next year, we'll install these three-bin systems in all our common areas."

Converge's journey to zero waste began in 2022 with the initial "Countdown to Zero Waste" campaign.  Phase one focused on managing waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) or e-waste – a critical issue in the Philippines, the third largest e-waste generator in Southeast Asia (Global E-Waste Monitor 2024).  Converge installed e-waste drop boxes in its offices and business centers, collecting over 100 kilograms of e-waste by November 2023.  This initiative contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goal 12, promoting responsible consumption and production.

Phase two tackled plastic waste, encouraging reduced consumption and eliminating plastic packaging for its modems, aligning with the Extended Producer Responsibility Law.  Converge successfully repurposed over 1,300 kg of plastic waste into eco-cast material for its facilities.

"Countdown to Zero Waste 3.0" represents a significant advancement in Converge's sustainability strategy.  By focusing on proper waste segregation, partnering with local organizations, and adhering to local regulations, Converge demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental responsibility and sets a positive example for other businesses in the Philippines.

IKEA Pasay City: A Filipino Christmas Caroling Celebration

This Christmas season, IKEA Pasay City is bringing back the magic of Filipino Christmas caroling!  From December 16th to 20th, they're hosting a week-long celebration filled with festive cheer, heartwarming traditions, and a chance to win amazing prizes.

Forget the usual mall rush; IKEA is creating a unique and immersive experience.  Imagine strolling through beautifully decorated room settings, the air filled with the joyful sounds of traditional Christmas carols.  This isn't just about listening; you're invited to participate!  Whether you're a seasoned caroler or just love to sing along, you're welcome to join in and fill IKEA with holiday spirit.

But that's not all.  IKEA is adding a creative, sustainable twist.  Participants can craft their own instruments using eco-friendly materials, making the experience even more memorable and in line with IKEA's commitment to sustainability.  After performing one or two carols, you'll get a chance to draw an aguinaldo (a traditional Christmas gift) from IKEA employees—with the chance to win up to PHP 5,000 in IKEA gift cards!

The fun doesn't stop there.  Special performances will be lighting up the store throughout the week, including appearances by renowned artists Christian Bautista and Maki, culminating in a surprise performance on December 20th.

Whether you're looking for the perfect Christmas gifts, holiday décor inspiration, or simply a heartwarming experience, IKEA Pasay City is the place to be. It's more than just a store; it's a community hub celebrating the true spirit of Christmas.

Join the carolling, embrace the tradition, and create lasting memories. Visit IKEA Pasay City from December 16th to 20th, and let the sounds of Christmas fill your heart. For more details, check out IKEA Pasay City's Facebook page or visit www.IKEA.ph.

Wednesday, December 18, 2024

Smart Launches Unlimited Data Philippine Tourist eSIM for OFWs & Tourists

Mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) has announced that its Smart Philippine Tourist eSIM now comes with unlimited data, making it easier for returning overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and foreign tourists to enjoy fast and reliable connectivity while traveling around the country.

For only Php1,599, the Smart Philippine Tourist eSIM comes with unlimited data and unlimited local calls and texts valid for 30 days, to cover all the connectivity needs of users for a worry-free travel experience.

Those who prefer a fixed amount of data may still get the Smart Philippine Tourist eSIM for only P599, which comes with 24 GB of data, along with unlimited local call and texts to all networks, also valid for 30 days.

Designed for returning OFWs, foreign tourists

Now available on the Smart Online Store and select Smart Stores nationwide, the Smart Philippine Tourist eSIMs are designed specifically for tourists so they can enjoy local rates for data, calls, and texts, eliminating the usual concerns about high roaming fees or limited Wi-Fi access.

Activating the Smart Philippine Tourist eSIM is also simple and hassle-free. Because there is no physical SIM card, you can skip the often-tedious process of swapping or changing your main physical SIM with a local SIM.

Fast and reliable connectivity on your holiday travels

With the Smart Philippine Tourist eSIMs, you can enjoy fast and reliable connectivity while navigating through bustling cities using your go-to apps, search practical tips online while exploring remote islands, or book rides and tours on the go.

You can also effortlessly post photos of your adventures on social media, stream your favorite movies and series during your downtime, and connect with local businesses or emergency services when needed.

If Bonifacio Global City, Taguig is in your itinerary, the Smart Philippine Tourist eSIMs also enable you to enjoy Smart 5G Max, Smart’s leveled-up 5G connectivity in the area marked by faster upload and download speeds and ultra-low latency.

The Smart Philippine Tourist eSIMs are powered by Smart’s superior mobile network, which covers 97% of the Philippine population and is supported by the country’s largest integrated network.

From Boracay’s world-renowned beaches, Palawan’s picture-perfect lagoons, to Manila’s heritage sites, the Smart Philippine Tourist eSIMs guarantee a worry-free and connected holiday. Order it now here

NU Baliwag's Paskonalian: Four Years of Community Giving

NU Baliwag celebrates Paskonalian this 2024 with an impressive concert featuring guest performers and rising OPM bands Matilduh, Over October, and Cup of Joe. Proceeds of the concert will be donated to a chosen community this Christmas.

Marking excellence beyond academics, NU Baliwag recently celebrated its annual Paskonalian or Paskong Nationalian, with dance and music competitions, highlighted by a remarkable concert-for-cause attended by 2,123 participants in SM City Baliwag. 

A cherished tradition since 2020, what started as a simple live-streamed singing event showcasing the talents of NU Baliwag students—aimed at raising funds for the victims of Typhoons Rolly and Ulysses—has grown into a grand celebration of community, charity, and holiday spirit.

In 2023, proceeds of the Paskonalian celebration were utilized to fund financial literacy workshops for parents and vegetable planting activities for selected students at Sulivan National High School in the City of Baliwag. Volunteers from NU Baliwag participated in the meaningful activity.

This year’s Paskonalian was an even greater success, bringing an expanded program that began with Hataw Nasyonalyan— a group dance competition, and a Battle of the Bands, followed by an electrifying evening concert featuring guest performers and rising OPM bands Matilduh, Over October, and Cup of Joe. Proceeds will be donated to a chosen community with support from the university’s Community Extension Office.

For four years, Paskonalian has remained an instrument for conducting meaningful projects that will benefit the community. In 2023, Paskonalian reached new heights as the Student Development and Activities Office (SDAO) in collaboration with the NU Baliwag Central Student Government organized an impressive concert highlighted by a spectacular fireworks display. Proceeds from the event funded financial literacy workshops for parents and vegetable planting activities for selected students at Sulivan National High School in the City of Baliwag. The same project was conducted in 2022, featuring student bands from the NU Baliwag Center for Performing Arts.

NU Baliwag’s Paskonalian has grown not just into a grand celebration of community and charity but also of holiday spirit. In 2023, NU Baliwag Executive Director Rufino Oliva led the university’s Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony, witnessed by the guests, faculty, and students

In 2021, Paskonalian showcased a Christmas tree lighting ceremony for a cause held at NU Baliwag, with proceeds benefiting the Dumagat community in Norzagaray. 

Paskonalian continues to embody the true spirit of the season—bringing joy, fostering togetherness, and supporting those in need. This annual tradition promises to deliver even more exciting and meaningful experiences in the years to come.

Saturday, December 14, 2024

Grab Offers Free Shuttle Rides for Homebound Filipinos

The Grab Be Present Bus assists passengers in getting home this holiday season, helping them avoid potential challenges with accessing regular transport options and ride-hailing services amid peak in travel demand

The Grab Be Present Bus assists passengers in getting home this holiday season, helping them avoid potential challenges with accessing regular transport options and ride-hailing services amid peak in travel demand

Grab Philippines, in partnership with the New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) and OneAyala, is providing free shuttle rides for Filipinos arriving at Terminals 2 and 3 of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport – the busiest terminals this holiday season. 

The Grab Be Present Bus provides convenient point-to-point transportation for Overseas Filipino Workers and other domestic travelers, connecting NAIA Terminals 2 and 3 directly to the OneAyala Transport Hub.

Ride-hailing platforms in the Philippines are facing increased pressure this holiday season as surging demand collides with persistent challenges such as traffic congestion and supply-demand imbalance. Grab Philippines’ historical data shows that the number of ride bookings grows to as much as 45% in the second and third weeks of December, directly impacting the reliability of the existing fleet of Transport Network Vehicle Services (TNVS) drivers to render their services. 

With the Grab Be Present Bus connecting passengers from the airport to a hub that houses other mass transit options, these concerns are effectively mitigated – ensuring more Filipinos can reach their destinations this season. 

The Grab Be Present Bus free shuttle services will be available from December 12 to 14 and December 19 to 21, 2024, operating daily from 1:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Passengers who wish to avail of the service can find Grab marshalls stationed at the arrival halls who will be ushering them to the pick-up point. They can also directly proceed to the pick-up points located at Terminal 3 (Bay 4) and Terminal 2 (Bay 5). To board the bus, passengers simply need to register and present their Grab app to the marshalls.

Thursday, December 12, 2024

Converge Empowers Young Filipinos with Data Privacy Advocacy Program

Amid the increasing social media activity of young Filipinos, leading fiber broadband and technology provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc. has launched an advocacy campaign that advances digital literacy and privacy awareness among school children.

Through its Corporate Governance and Data Privacy (CGDP) Group, Converge introduced its Project PIGLET (Privacy Integration through Guided Learning of Emerging Technologies), which intends to educate learners on the importance of protecting their personal information online. 

To kickstart the initiative, Converge tied up with its neighboring primary school Francisco Legaspi Memorial School (FLMS) in Pasig to engage its pupils in Grades 2 to 6 in a child-friendly discussion on digital literacy and responsible online behavior. 

“The goal of this initiative is to raise awareness about the potential risks in the internet since children nowadays are already given access to gadgets and social media. We believe it is essential to start educating kids to be more vigilant from an early age, both at home and in school, to help them avoid falling victim to these threats,” said Converge SVP and Corporate Compliance and Data Protection Officer Atty. Laurice Esteban-Tuason.

During the launch, Converge hosted a storytelling session for the pupils, along with their parents and teachers. Integrating a child-friendly spin on the topic, the story follows the adventures of the ‘Astro Kids’ in the ‘Internet Universe,’ where they encounter deceptive monsters, feigning friendliness, tricking them to share their personal information like their full name, birthday, address, and contact information.

With the help of Captain Conrad, the Astro Kids successfully defeated the monsters in the story, guiding the participants to be cautious and not to easily trust individuals who seem overly friendly in cyberspace. Additionally, the students were encouraged to inform their parents or teachers about such incidents of potential identity theft, fraudulent schemes, and misinformation.

“The technology is constantly evolving, and our call is for all of us to be aware and vigilant as we navigate all these. We hope that the lesson we impart through this program is a step to a safer online and digital experience for all of us,” added Esteban-Tuason.

Next year, Converge plans to explore other approaches to engage students at other academic levels and visit more schools throughout the country to spread the campaign. 

Converge has been actively striving to help foster safe and secure online spaces for Filipinos. In 2022, Converge collaborated with UK-based child abuse watchdog Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) to combat the distribution of images and videos depicting child sexual abuse. 

Additionally, Converge partnered with the Stairway Foundation last year to raise awareness about ways to safeguard kids against online sexual abuse and exploitation.

Moreover, ensuring that its network won’t be used for criminal activities, the company also blocked almost 12 billion entry attempts to illicit and harmful web addresses as of end-2023.

Converge launched its Project PIGLET, an advocacy campaign that advances digital literacy and privacy awareness among school children. Its first stop was its neighboring primary school Francisco Legaspi Memorial School (FLMS) in Pasig.

The members of the Converge Corporate Governance and Data Privacy (CGDP) Group with the teachers and parents from FLMS.

SM City Baliwag Welcomes New Dining Experiences


SM City Baliwag is expanding its culinary scene with the addition of two exciting new restaurants: Mr. Mala Hotpot and Sumo Niku. These additions promise a diverse range of flavors and dining experiences for Bulakenyos.

Sumo Niku: Unleash Your Inner Samgyup Enthusiast 

For those seeking a thrilling food adventure, Sumo Niku offers an unlimited Japanese barbecue experience. Located on the ground level of SM City Baliwag, this new restaurant is the perfect destination for a fun and satisfying meal with friends and family.

Sumo Niku's all-you-can-eat deal features a delectable spread of premium grilled meats, including pork, beef, and chicken, all cooked to perfection. The experience is enhanced by a variety of side dishes, special sauces, and endless drinks for just P599 per person[1] .

Mr. Mala Hotpot: A DIY Hotpot Adventure

Perfect for both chilly evenings and warmer days, Mr. Mala Hotpot invites diners to embark on a personalized hotpot journey. This restaurant also sits on the ground level of SM City Baliwag and allows guests to create their own unique hotpot experience in six easy steps:

1. Grab a bowl

2. Pick ingredients

3. Weigh the bowl

4. Choose broth

5. Select spice level

6. Add condiments[1]

With its customizable options, Mr. Mala Hotpot caters to diverse tastes and preferences, ensuring a satisfying and flavorful experience for every diner. 

SM City Baliwag is committed to providing its patrons with a diverse range of dining options. The mall promises to unveil even more exciting store concepts throughout the holiday season. To stay updated on the latest trends and happenings, follow SM City Baliwag’s social media pages.

With the addition of Mr. Mala Hotpot and Sumo Niku, SM City Baliwag continues to solidify its position as a premier destination for food lovers in Bulacan.

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