Sotogrande Hotel and Convention Center Batangas Presents: “A Perfect Night with True Faith"

Music lovers are in for a treat as Sotogrande Hotel and Convention Center Batangas, in partnership with Approche Hospitality Management, proudly presents “A Perfect Night with True Faith” on November 28, 2025, at 7:00 PM.

Spend an unforgettable evening with the legendary OPM band True Faith, performing their greatest hits live on stage. The night will also feature Agape Band as the front act, setting the mood for an exciting celebration of Filipino music and artistry.

Ticket Prices:

VIP – ₱2,500

Gold – ₱1,500

General Admission – ₱1,000

Special Promo:

Enjoy an overnight stay in a Superior Room with breakfast and two (2) Gold tickets for only ₱5,500 NET.

Celebrate great music, warm hospitality, and the vibrant spirit of Batangas in one Perfect Night at Sotogrande Hotel and Convention Center Batangas.

 For inquiries and reservations: +63 962 975 8794 | reservations.batangas@sotograndehotels.com

Holiday Upgrade? Kaya ‘Yan for as Low as ₱20 per Day with Home Credit

Make every wish come true with The Great Double Zero Festival for as low as 0% interest and zero down payment

Every year, we go through the same gift-giving dilemma—playing it safe with mugs, socks, or scented candles. But what if, this time, you could give something that truly stands out? Imagine surprising your loved ones with a bigger, more meaningful gift for as low as ₱20 a day.

This holiday season, Home Credit Philippines (HCPH), the country’s leading consumer finance company, makes it easier to give memorable gifts through The Great Double Zero Festival. With zero downpayment, 0% interest, and flexible installment plans of up to 24 months, you can now turn your gift list into reality—whether it’s the latest gadgets, a new laptop, or home appliances—while keeping your holiday spending light and easy.

From tech must-haves to home essentials, there’s something for everyone on your list. Here are some exciting gift ideas you can get through The Great Double Zero Festival:

Appliances for a merrier home for as low as ₱749 per month or ₱25 per day 

Bring joy to the whole family with appliances that make home life more comfortable and convenient. From upgrading the kitchen to improving everyday living, these gifts are perfect for moms, dads, or even newlyweds building their dream home. Get these practical yet thoughtful presents for as low as ₱749 per month or ₱25 per day.

• Condura 8.2cu ft Inverter Refrigerator – Give the gift of freshness and efficiency for as low as ₱25 per day or ₱749 per month for 18 months, retailing at ₱18,601.
• Devant 55-inch 4K UHD Smart TV – Make family movie nights merrier with this Smart TV for as low as ₱30 per day or ₱909 per month for 18 months, retailing at ₱22,313.
• Panasonic 8.6cu ft Inverter Two Door Refrigerator – Surprise them with this energy-efficient refrigerator for as low as ₱28 per day or ₱839 per month for 18 months, retailing at ₱20,600.

Gifterrific gadgets for as low as ₱599 per month or ₱20 per day

Make the holidays brighter with gadgets that add joy and everyday convenience. Whether it’s for a sibling who loves capturing memories, an inaanak who’s always online, or a dad who deserves an upgrade, these gifts are sure to bring smiles all around. Get them for as low as ₱599 per month or ₱20 per day.

• Vivo V50 Lite 4G – Surprise them with this stylish smartphone for as low as ₱20 per day or ₱599 per month for 18 months, retailing at ₱13,999.
• Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 – Give this sleek and reliable everyday phone for as low as ₱26 per day or ₱769 per month for 9 months, retailing at ₱9,499.
• Honor Pad 9 With Keyboard – Gift this multitasking tablet for as low as ₱26 per day or ₱769 per month for 18 months, retailing at ₱17,999. 

Holiday hustle-ready laptops for as low as ₱1,499 per month or ₱50 per day 

Surprise students or young professionals with a laptop that can keep up with every holiday hustle. Whether for work, school, or play, it’s a thoughtful gift that helps them stay productive and powered through the season and beyond—all for as low as ₱1,499 per month or ₱50 per day.

• Acer Aspire Lite – Give them a reliable everyday laptop for as low as ₱50 per day or ₱1,499 per month for 18 months, retailing at ₱36,999.
• Asus TUF A15 – Surprise them with this performance-ready laptop for as low as ₱62 per day or ₱1,869 per month for 18 months, with a retail price of ₱45,999.
• Lenovo LOQ – Gift this powerhouse for just ₱79 per day or ₱2,359 per month for 18 months, retailing at ₱57,995.

With The Great Double Zero Festival, making the holidays more memorable has never been this easy. The promo runs until December 31, 2025, giving you plenty of time to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list.

Applying is simple. Just present one valid ID and get approval in as fast as one minute, subject to eligibility. This offer is available at over 18,000 Home Credit partner stores nationwide, where in-store Home Credit representatives are ready to assist you.

For added convenience, you can also apply for pre-approval through the Home Credit App, available on Google Play, the App Store, or Huawei AppGallery, for a faster and smoother shopping experience.

Make gift-giving mas bongga this holiday season with Home Credit—because the most meaningful gifts are now easier to give.

To check available products and store locations, visit Shoppingmall.ph.

To know more about the latest updates from Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website, www.homecredit.ph, or get the Home Credit App from Google Play, the App Store, or Huawei AppGallery. You may also follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts.  

Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).  

eufy Launches the World’s First Heated Wearable Pump—Quiet, Hands-Free, and Built for Modern Moms

The eufy Heated Wearable Breast Pump E20 champions innovation and comfort

Being a mom in a modern, fast-paced world has taken an entirely new look. Today, moms are project managers, career women, and business partners. But they’re also nurturers at home, juggling endless to-do lists. With so many things running through the mind of the modern mom each day, the last thing she should have to worry about is the stress of pumping.

Breastfeeding is already a major commitment, and it can be taxing emotionally and physically. While traditional breast pumps have helped moms in the past, the wires, the noise, and the need to sit still in one place for long stretches often make it a struggle to find the time or energy to keep up with so many other things still left to do.

That’s why eufy, a smart home brand launched by Anker Innovations, has expanded its thoughtful design philosophy into products that support the needs of today’s parents. The latest addition to its growing lineup of mom-focused solutions is the eufy Wearable Breast Pump E20, made for today’s multitasking modern mom.

A Smarter, Freer Way to Pump

For many moms, the biggest challenge of traditional breast pumping is comfort. They either feel stuck, have to sit still, or deal with soreness after longer sessions. 

The eufy Wearable Breast Pump E20 comes in a fully wireless and hands-free design, giving them the freedom and convenience to move around as they pump. Whether they’re fixing documents at home, answering emails, or spending a few quiet minutes reading a book, the E20 lets them do it all without the hassle of staying glued to one spot. 

Its ergonomic design also secures a secure and gentle fit to reduce any feelings of soreness afterwards, and its leakproof build adds to peace of mind. It’s simple improvements to the experience that relieves them of many worries. 

The eufy Heated Wearable Breast Pump E20 comes with three (3) adjustable heat levels through its HeatFlow™ technology

At the core of its design is HeatFlow™ technology, which uses gentle warmth to help stimulate milk flow and reduce any discomfort, mimicking a baby’s natural feeding rhythm. The E20 comes with pre-set pumping rhythms and adjustable suction levels, so moms can personalize how they use the pump to the setting that gives them the most ease.

Designed for Quiet Moments

Peace and privacy are luxuries for any mom – especially after a long busy day. In case she still needs to pump during the late-night or while the rest of the family sleeps, the E20 features an ultra-quiet motor for near-silent operation that allows moms to pump without any noise breaking the peace. 

Calmness also comes from feeling in control. Moms can pair the E20 with the eufy app giving them full control right from their phone. They can adjust control settings, monitor suction strength, and track sessions in real time. 

Even with its compact size, the E20 keeps up with even the busiest routines, offering up to six sessions per full charge. When it’s time to clean up, every part that comes in contact with milk is easy to wash, and it’s BPA-free and safe! 

Helping Moms Reclaim Their Time

Motherhood is a nonstop job, but with tools like the eufy Wearable Breast Pump E20, moms can reclaim moments they might have lost to pumping. WIth this latest innovation, eufy continues its mission to bring smart simplicity to modern living, and now, to one of the most meaningful aspects of it – motherhood. The Wearable Breast Pump E20 is not just about making pumping easier for moms, but it’s about giving back their time, freedom, and confidence. 

The eufy Wearable Breast Pump E20 is now available through the official eufy website and on the official eufy stores on Lazada and Shopee for PHP 9,995. 

Best Deals, Great Discounts at SM City Marilao’s Super Holiday Sale

Christmas vibes are arriving early as SM City Marilao brings a spectacular Super Holiday Sale that’s all about big savings, big smiles, and merry discoveries!

Prepare your holiday wish list and fill your carts with great gift selections for friends and loved ones from Friday, November 14, until Sunday, November 16. Enjoy up to 70% off selected items on mall-wide promotions from SM Store, SM Hypermarket, Ace Hardware, Watsons, SM Appliance Center, Our Home, Miniso, and other stores inside the mall. There are lots to choose from: beauty, home, gadgets, toys, apparel, shoes, bags, and many more.

While shopping, also check out awesome dining deals at affordable prices from selected food tenants at SM City Marilao.

Get your calendars and mark November 14-16 all the way from 10am to 9pm. Head on over to the SM City Marilao Super Holiday Sale blowout! For mall events and updates, check out https://www.facebook.com/SMCityMarilao on Facebook.

Grab, CHAGEE bring modern tea culture to more Filipinos

International tea and beverage leader CHAGEE is officially launching as an “ONLY ON GRAB” restaurant, part of a selection of merchant-partners available exclusively on GrabFood, starting with the tea brand’s Metro Manila stores. The goal is simple for Filipinos: find CHAGEE faster on  the Grab app, track deliveries in real time, and enjoy localized offers that make high-quality tea an easy everyday choice. 

By leveraging Grab’s actionable data, engaged consumer base, and nationwide delivery fleet, the partnership positions CHAGEE to scale sustainably and drive long-term growth in the Philippine market.

Early traction from CHAGEE’s soft launch on Grab points to strong demand. Since going live, the brand has averaged 46% week-on-week growth in on-demand deliveries. Average daily transactions already place CHAGEE among GrabFood’s top tea merchant partners in the Philippines, with Bo·Ya Jasmine Green Milk Tea, Da Hong Pao Milk Tea, and Osmanthus Oolong Milk Tea leading orders during the introductory period. Grab and CHAGEE will build on this momentum as more stores come online.

Engaging Filipino Tea Lovers

For Filipino consumers, the partnership means CHAGEE will be easier to access on the Grab app – offering relevant promotions to local preferences and time-of-day demand. 

CHAGEE and Grab are also rolling out market-specific campaigns that turn data-driven insights into meaningful customer experiences. In the Philippines, upcoming promotions will reward customers with limited-time offers and exclusive merchandise in celebration of CHAGEE’s 8th anniversary.

Highlights include savings on multi-cup purchases and collectible gifts available through CHAGEE orders on the Grab app. These initiatives reflect both brands’ shared commitment to using technology and creativity to deepen customer engagement, celebrate loyalty, and enhance the overall delivery experience.

“This is a practical partnership with clear benefits for Filipinos,” said EJ Dela Vega, Grab Philippines Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Deliveries. “If you want CHAGEE, you should be able to find it on Grab and get it when you need it. At the same time, we’re using data and AI to help merchants such as CHAGEE scale, to make the customer experience more personal and reliable, and to take better care of the rider-partners who deliver for our customers every day.” 

Voltaire Rusiana, CHAGEE Philippines Head of Operations, added: “Grab’s presence in the Philippines helps us connect with both new and loyal CHAGEE fans. Convenience and consistency matter as much as taste, and this collaboration allows us to delivery the full CHAGEE experience to more people, quickly and at scale.”

The partnership in the Philippines reflects CHAGEE and Grab’s ongoing collaboration to explore new ways of enhancing convenience and connection for customers through technology and innovation. Both brands remain committed to making quality tea experiences more accessible to everyday consumers.

SM ELEVATES YOUR HOLIDAY GIFTING GAME

The holidays just got easier. SM is turning gift-giving from “ugh, what do I get them?” to pure “yes, nailed it!” This season, skip the guesswork and give gifts that actually make your friends and family smile. From fashion faves to foodie baskets, SM has everything you need to make your presents feel personal, thoughtful, and totally Instagrammable.

Give the Gift of Choice 

Skip the guesswork and let your loved ones pick what they truly want. SM Gift Cards and SM Gift Pass from The SM Store give the ultimate freedom to choose, whether it’s the latest fashion must-haves, tech gadgets, or lifestyle essentials. These versatile gifts are perfect for friends, family, or that hard-to-shop-for colleague, ensuring your present hits the mark every time.

Gourmet Delights for Every Palate 

Looking to elevate your gifting game with a culinary twist? SM Supermarket and SM Hypermarket are your go-to destinations for gourmet Christmas baskets and festive treats. Available in SM City Grand Central, SM Center Sangandaan, and SM City Valenzuela, these baskets can be personalized to suit your loved ones’ tastes. From artisanal snacks to premium delicacies, every basket is a celebration of flavor and thoughtfulness, perfect for sharing a little holiday magic at the dining table.

Shop Longer, Stress Less

SM knows that holiday shopping deserves time and comfort. That’s why starting November 17, SM City Grand Central, SM City Valenzuela, and SM Center Sangandaan will extend mall hours to make gift-hunting easier and more enjoyable. SM City Grand Central will open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on select November dates, with extended hours until 11 p.m. from December 12 to 23. Meanwhile, SM City Valenzuela and SM Center Sangandaan will open as early as 10 a.m. during most of the holiday period. On Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, all three malls will welcome visitors from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and on New Year’s Day, doors open at 12:00 noon until 10:00 p.m.

This year, go beyond the usual and embrace the art of thoughtful giving with SM. Because every card, basket, and carefully chosen present carries more than just material value as it tells a story of love, connection, and celebration.

Happy shopping, and happy gifting from SM!

Solaire Resort North’s Christmas Tree Lighting Sparkles with Hyun Bin and Holiday Cheer

(L-R) Department of Tourism - National Capital Region Assistant Regional Director Ivan Agote; Solaire Resort North’s Chief Operating Officer Damian Quayle; Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte; PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco; Bloomberry Resorts Corporation Vice Chairman for Construction and Regulatory Affairs Donato Almeda

Merriment and magic begin at Solaire Resort North marked by the brilliant lights that shone during its recent Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. Laughter and cheer echoed through the Atrium Lobby as residents of Quezon City and beyond gathered for this special celebration.

Guests of honor who graced the event were Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco, Department of Tourism – National Capital Region Assistant Regional Director Ivan Agote, Bloomberry Resorts Corporation Vice Chairman for Construction and Regulatory Affairs Donato Almeda, and Solaire Resort North’s very own Chief Operating Officer Damian Quayle. 

Ballet Philippines with Ambassadors for Christ Chamber Singers 

Hosted by Carla Guevara Laforteza, the ceremony encapsulated the true meaning of Christmas with performances by the country’s premiere dance company, Ballet Philippines, as well as the breathtaking croons and serenades of the Ambassadors for Christ Chamber Singers. The presence of patrons and passersby amplified the reveling as the Christmas Tree lit the lobby up alongside the elegant Mangrove of Solaire Resort North.

Adding to the festivities, the Department of Tourism officially awarded Solaire Resort North with a plaque officiating its status as a 5-star property during the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

During the ceremony, the Department of Tourism (DOT) awarded Solaire Resort North with a plaque officiating its status as a 5-star property. The Quezon City-based integrated resort earned its title from the DOT last July 2025, solidifying its reputation as the premiere luxury destination in Northern Metro Manila. With a commitment to exceptional service, refined elegance, and globally competitive standards, each holiday celebration at Solaire Resort North is made special. 

For the festive season, Solaire shines even brighter alongside South Korean actor Hyun Bin as its newest brand ambassador. From exclusive holiday dining options, festive activities for the whole family, and luxurious staycations, the next Christmas celebration is guaranteed to be full of joy and fulfillment for everyone.

Continue the most jubilant time of the year with Solaire Resort North as festivities run throughout the season. Feel the warmth from the captivating choir performances at the Atrium beginning November 15, every weekend until Christmas Day. Make a wish with Santa Claus on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day as he roams the halls with his holly jolly laugh for all. 

This season, experience the magic of making holiday wishes come true for the next holiday celebration, from feasts with loved ones to well-deserved escapes, all at Solaire Resort North. For reservations and inquiries, visit sn.solaireresort.com/all-i-want-for-christmas or call +632 8888 8888 to join in creating more magical memories at Solaire.

Host Holiday Feasts Effortlessly with IKEA PH's Affordable Cooking & Dining Collection

Bringing the Flavors of Home to you. (L-R) Hervy Nicholas, IKEA Sales Leader, IKEA shopkeepers Nerie Loquillano and Grace Ante, actress and host Dimples Romana, Grace Tanfelix, Icoy Rapadas, and Mitch Ngo (@thechinitafoodie) at a live cooking demo showcasing dishes for the holidays.

Christmas in the Philippines radiates the soul of the Filipino people—a vibrant tapestry of family, faith, and shared joy. Whether gathered in a humble provincial home, where laughter mingles with the aroma of freshly steamed bibingka and puto bumbong, or in a bustling condo in Manila, where platters of ensaymada and pandesal pass from hand to hand, the heart of the season beats strongest at home. It is here, amidst clinking glasses and shared stories, that generations unite to craft memories as rich as the feasts on their tables. 

Recognizing this cherished tradition, IKEA Pasay has embraced the spirit of Filipino Pasko by turning the spotlight on kitchens and dining spaces—the true stages of holiday magic. At its Flavors of Home Festival, IKEA celebrated the irreplaceable role of cooking, feasting, and togetherness, inviting families to reimagine their homes as havens of warmth and connection.

The festival ignited with a lively convergence of culinary enthusiasts and design aficionados, all united by a single mission: to elevate the art of home celebrations. Social media stars Icoy Rapadas, Grace Tanfelix, and Mitch Ngo (@thechinitafoodie) brought the sizzle to the stage, transforming IKEA’s cookware into holiday masterpieces during a dynamic live demo—proving that lechon-level feasts and kakanin-inspired desserts are within reach for every home chef. Meanwhile, acclaimed interior designer Elle Uy transported guests into enchanting kitchen and dining vignettes, weaving IKEA’s festive collections into spaces that sparkled with both practicality and yuletide charm.

From the clatter of pots to the clink of glasses, IKEA Pasay’s festival didn’t just showcase products—it celebrated the Filipino kitchen as the soul of the season, where every simmering pot and crowded dining table tells a story of love, legacy, and the unbreakable bonds of pamilya.

Ready for the holidays. Foodie creators (L-R) Grace Tanfelix, Icoy Rapadas, and Mitch Ngo (@thechinitafoodie) whipped up delicious dishes using kitchen and dining products, and ingredients from IKEA.

As a highlight of the event, guests were treated to a beautiful serenade by singer-actress Angeline Quinto, who did a rendition of Sharon Cuneta’s “Bituing Walang Ningning.” With sustainability being a core value of IKEA, the song is a tongue-in-cheek reminder to not waste food by taking home leftovers – or in Filipino terms, “balutin” or “i-Sharon.”   Plus, in true Filipino Christmas tradition, the IKEA store was enveloped with joyful songs courtesy of the philharmonic orchestra. 

“The Filipino way of celebrating the season is centered on family and food at home. IKEA wants to make it more special with our affordable kitchen and dining range,” says Hervy Nicholas, IKEA Philippines Sales Leader. “That’s what drives us at IKEA: the joy we get from seeing people from all walks of life enjoying our pieces that are functional, beautiful, sustainable, and affordable.”

A Christmas-ready kitchen

Stylish ideas for your Christmas decor. (L-R) Actress and host Dimples Romana, interior designer and content creator Elle Uy, and Kit Agoncillo, IKEA Social Media Manager get cozy in a studio-type showroom with holiday-themed home pieces.

Budget-conscious Filipinos who want to get their kitchen and dining table ready for all the cooking and feasting ahead will discover the joy of stress-free cooking with IKEA’s ANNONS, a five-piece stainless steel cookware set with glass lids. At only P699, it’s one of the store’s bestsellers — and don’t forget to grab a matching stainless steel trivet or two to protect your counter and table at only P69.   

For those long stews and sauces, check out the non-stick KLIPPFISK sauté pan with lid (P1,999. If you’re on the lookout for reliable frying pans, there’s the IKEA 365+ stainless steel frying pan (P999); the non-stick TAGGHAJ frying pan (P299). For a quick stir-fry when friends suddenly call that they’re coming over, the HEMLAGAD wok with lid (P999) will do the job, while the HEMLAGAD over-stove grill pan will take care of steaks and barbecues. And because cooking in December means you’re on a tight clock, the six-liter IKEA 365+ pressure cooker (P3999) is indispensable for Sunday beef nilaga when the extended family is coming over.

Prepping for dinner. Interior designer and content creator Elle Uy inspires with an inviting dining setup.

A table set for togetherness

After the cooking comes the best part of the feast: eating! From the busy kitchen to the calm dining room, IKEA makes the shift seamless (and coordinated, if you wish). 

Starting with the décor, the 15-cm. POINSETTIA potted plant (P449) adds a touch of green to the table. Scatter VINTERFINT mixed bauble glass (P499/8 pieces) or make it all gold baubles (P599/20 pieces).

IKEA’s dining collections for noche buena bring the same practicality, affordability and beauty of its cooking collection. The VINTERFINT side plate (P129) has a subtle red band around the rim and won’t be out of place after the holidays. Or opt for the more earthy tone of SANDSKÄDDA (P129), and the translucent, gray-striped elegance of HAVSGÄDDA (P129). Pair these with the 49-cl. STORSINT wine glass, which comes in a set of six (P799), and the IKEA 365+ carafe with cork stopper (P249). 

For full plates, green takes inspiration from forest and nature with PELARKAKTUS (P249), making for an opulent-looking table setting with its deep color. The GLADELIG plate (P199) in dark gray recalls natural stone, while the STOLTHET cutting board (P599), which can double as a cheese or dessert board, brings a touch of wood to the table. With the dining table laden with food and desserts, the three-layer RÅSKOG utility cart comes to rescue to hold the extras.

The best part about Filipino Christmas feasts is that they last beyond the day itself. On Christmas Day, start with IKEA’s plain and patterned bowls for cereal at breakfast and soup or salad for lunch. With so much food to keep, the IKEA 365+ glass container with bamboo lid (P249, 34 oz.) comes in handy to give away what’s left over from noche buena or to keep in the refrigerator for later.

From the first gift wrapped in September to the last leftover lechon paksiw on the first days of the new year, Filipinos really know how to stretch a celebration. 

Discover IKEA’s Christmas Shop and its kitchen and dining items to get you ready for the holidays at IKEA Mall of Asia and online.

Allianz PNB Life Launches MaPanatag: Empowering Single Moms with Security, Wellness, and Opportunity

New initiative offers health coverage, financial stability, and community support to help single mothers thrive while safeguarding their families’ futures.

Allianz PNB Life, a leader in the Philippine insurance sector, introduced MaPanatag yesterday at Discovery Primea, Makati—a groundbreaking program tailored to uplift the country’s 14 million single moms. By blending health protection, wellness benefits, and income-generating opportunities, the initiative aims to ease the daily pressures faced by single mothers and empower them to build resilient futures.

A Launch Rooted in Community

The event brought together Allianz PNB Life executives, partner representatives, and inspiring "Mombassadors"—single mothers whose stories of resilience and triumph embodied the program’s mission. Among them were employees of Allianz PNB Life and PNB, whose lived experiences directly shaped MaPanatag’s design.

Meet the Mombassadors:

Allianz PNB Life Moms

1. Apple Isidro: Stronger Every Step of the Journey

Apple’s journey as a single mother began two months into her pregnancy, when betrayal and debt forced her to rebuild her life. Juggling full-time work, parenting, and mental health struggles, she emerged stronger with therapy and her family’s support. Today, she and her son thrive independently, proving resilience and love can overcome any obstacle.

2. Heidi Larosa: Faith That Never Faltered

A mother of four, Heidi rebuilt her life after her marriage collapsed in 2015. When her eldest son suffered a near-fatal accident in 2023, her courage was tested again—but she stood firm. Now, her children excel in school and sports, a testament to her unwavering perseverance.

3. Janella Reyes: From Trials to Triumphs

Janella became a mom at 19, leaving college to support her family. Years later, she returned to earn her degree cum laude, pass the CPA board exams, and now thrives as Allianz PNB Life’s Finance Manager. Her journey reflects how motherhood can fuel unstoppable motivation.

PNB Moms

4. Rosemary Fernandez: Grace Through Loss, Strength Through Love

Widowed at 35, Rosemary transitioned from dependence to managing finances, parenting, and a banking career alone. Supported by her parents, she prioritized her children’s education, sacrificing her comfort to see them graduate from Ateneo and build successful careers.

5. Angel Galut: Young, Brave, and Unbreakable

Angel became a mother during college, delivering her son prematurely at seven months. Balancing hospital stays, studies, and pandemic parenting, she found strength in her son’s survival. Her story is one of courage, faith, and the transformative power of motherhood.

6. Aira Patrishia Carmelo: Stronger With Every New Beginning

After surgery left her with one ovary, Aira embraced an unexpected pregnancy in 2020. When her relationship ended, she courageously pursued new opportunities to secure her son’s future. Her journey symbolizes resilience born from faith and love.

Peace of Mind Through Holistic Support

“Single moms shoulder immense responsibilities—often alone,” said Joe Gross, President and CEO of Allianz PNB Life. “MaPanatag symbolizes our pledge to stand beside them. We want to replace uncertainty with confidence, so they can focus on nurturing their families today without fearing tomorrow.”

The program’s three pillars were crafted using insights from the Mombassadors’ lived experiences:

1. Health Protection (eAZy Health): Renewable insurance covering critical illness, disability, and accidental death.

2. Wellness Benefits (HerBox): Includes ₱2,000 in first-year wellness credits, annual ₱1,000 allowances (Years 2–5), and discounts on healthcare and essentials.

3. Income Opportunities: Eligibility to join Allianz’s sales network for flexible earning potential.

Driving Inclusion and Sustainability

MaPanatag aligns with Allianz’s commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and inclusive growth. “By supporting single mothers—who form the backbone of countless families—we’re investing in a stronger, more equitable society,” Gross emphasized.

Join the Movement

Single mothers can learn more at www.allianzpnblife.ph, visit PNB branches, or follow Allianz PNB Life on social media.

Through MaPanatag, Allianz PNB Life reaffirms its role as a partner in progress for Filipino families, ensuring every mother has the tools to live boldly and protect what matters most.

Converge Posts Strong 9M2025 Results with 10.1% Revenue Surge, Net Income Climbs to ₱8.9B

Leading fiber broadband and tech innovator Converge ICT Solutions Inc. (PSE: CNVRG) sustained robust growth in the first nine months of 2025, achieving a 10.1% year-on-year revenue increase to ₱33 billion. Net income rose 8.4% to ₱8.9 billion, driven by accelerating demand across its residential and enterprise segments.

The company’s residential revenues rose to P 27.7 billion, up by 9.1 percent year-on-year, as it registered nearly 370,000 fiber net adds during the nine-month period. Converge has grown its residential subscriber base to almost 2.93 million as of end-September 2025.

Together with these gains in the residential segment, the company’s enterprise revenues, meanwhile, went up by 16.2 percent to P 5.2 billion from P 4.5 billion in the same period last year, coming from the strong double-digit revenue growth of its SME and wholesale subsegments. 

“Our techco transition has driven us to accelerate improvements in our infrastructure and to bring more advanced digital solutions. Moving towards the end of 2025 and on to 2026, we will continue expanding our portfolio of digital and value-added services for both residential and enterprise customers,” said Converge CEO and Co-Founder Dennis Anthony Uy.

Uy said the company’s residential subscriber base remains in growth mode, with FiberX maintaining its stable expansion in the last nine months, and its prepaid product Surf2Sawa recently surpassing half a million subscribers.

Meanwhile, the company’s EBITDA grew by double-digits at 10.6 percent to P 20.2 billion, with EBITDA margin improving to 61.2 percent, and its Return on Invested Capital (ROIC) remained industry-leading at 18.2 percent.

As an industry leader driving the country’s technology landscape, Converge led the staging and the conduct of the 51st Philippine Business Expo and Conference, which convened government leaders, industry experts and businesses to discuss how Filipino organizations can unleash the power of digital transformation.

At the Expo, Converge announced that it has loaded original Filipino content to its Xperience Hub through a collaboration with entertainment powerhouse Viva Communications Inc. This is expected to further elevate the viewing experience of its nearly three million subscribers, as well as add to its growing entertainment content suite.

In August, Converge announced that the Bifrost Cable System has landed in Davao, allowing Converge to soon provide direct access to third-party players to one of the most advanced trans-Pacific subsea cables. The infrastructure is seen to deliver unparalleled speed, resilience, and capacity for global communications.

Moreover, Converge also introduced its software-defined wide area network solution called Cyber Resiliency Bundle, which was designed to empower businesses to safeguard operations while providing a secure, reliable, and high-performing connectivity.

Beyond these digital initiatives, Converge was honored as one of the best-governed publicly listed firms in the Philippines, as it was recognized for upholding the highest standards in corporate governance. Converge received the top Five Golden Arrow rating based on the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard (ACGS) in the latest 2024 review conducted by the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD), a leap from the Company’s Three-Arrow standing in the previous year.

BIGGER-THAN-LIFE LIGHTS AND RIBBONS DAZZLE AT SM CITY VALENZUELA SWIRL OF CHRISTMAS FUN

Santa makes a grand entrance at SM City Valenzuela, greeting guests with holiday cheer during the mall’s highly anticipated Swirl of Christmas Fun launch.

The holiday season came alive at SM City Valenzuela as the mall unwrapped a new chapter of holiday cheer with its much-anticipated Christmas launch. This year’s celebration tied together the magic of the season through one striking symbol, the Grand Holiday Red Ribbon, representing love, warmth, and the joy of giving that define Christmas at SM.

Holiday magic comes alive at SM City Valenzuela as the mall ushers in The Swirl of Christmas Fun, marking the start of a vibrant and joy-filled Yuletide season.

A luminous start to the holidays—SM City Valenzuela and Valenzuela City officials unveil the mall’s stunning Holiday Centerpiece, illuminating the season with color, cheer, and community spirit.

Adorning the mall’s majestic 30-foot Christmas tree, the iconic red ribbon took center stage, capturing the heart of the season. Like the excitement of unwrapping a long-awaited gift, the ribbon symbolizes togetherness, the thrill of surprises, and the deep affection that fills homes during the holidays.

All smiles for Santa! Children beam with excitement as they pose beside the jolly icon of Christmas at SM City Valenzuela’s sparkling Swirl of Christmas Fun display.

SM City Valenzuela officially launched its Swirl of Christmas Fun. Joining honors are Valenzuela Vice Mayor Marlon Alejandrino (middle), (L-R) SM City Valenzuela Assistant Manager Kristine Joyce Pimentel, Valenzuela City Councilors Lorie Natividad-Borja and Nina Shiela Lopez. 

Valenzuela Vice Mayor Marlon Alejandrino (center) joins SM City Valenzuela Assistant Mall Manager Kristine Joyce Pimentel and Councilors Lorie Natividad-Borja and Nina Shiela Lopez during the launch of Swirl of Christmas Fun.

Adding to the enchantment, visitors were welcomed by bigger-than-life lamps and a bigger-than-life ribbon, illuminating the mall with an extra touch of grandeur and joy. Thousands of glittering lights twinkled in harmony with merry tunes, transforming SM City Valenzuela into a glowing wonderland for families and friends to enjoy.

The Grand Holiday Red Ribbon takes center stage as SM City Valenzuela wraps the community in the warmth of love and togetherness this Christmas season.

The glowing Grand Holiday Red Ribbon centerpiece illuminates SM City Valenzuela, capturing the spirit of joy, generosity, and celebration.

More than a visual spectacle, the Swirl of Christmas Fun brought the spirit of the season to life through a festive lineup of heartwarming performances. With the Grand Holiday Red Ribbon as this year’s highlight, the Christmas centerpiece at SM City Valenzuela wrapped everyone in the spirit of connection and celebration, creating new memories in the swirl of Christmas fun.

All I Want for Christmas is Hyun Bin at Solaire Resort

Celebrate the holiday season like Hyun Bin at Solaire 

The holidays just got brighter as Solaire Resort welcomes the season with its newest global ambassador, Korean superstar Hyun Bin. Known for his timeless charisma and effortless sophistication, Hyun Bin perfectly captures the magic of a Filipino Christmas, elevated with the warmth, joy, and elegance that only Solaire can offer.

As the city’s most dazzling destination for memorable experiences, Solaire transforms into a festive wonderland where every detail tells a story of indulgence and connection. From lavish dining feasts and thoughtfully curated holiday menus to luxurious stays framed by city lights, the resort invites guests to rediscover the beauty of togetherness in the most refined way. The air hums with carols, glasses clink in celebration, and every corner glows with the kind of warmth that feels both familiar and extraordinary.

Solaire Resort welcomes the festive season with its new brand ambassador, Korean superstar Hyun Bin.

Through Hyun Bin’s eyes, Christmas at Solaire becomes all you want to be, filled with joy, meaningful, and festive celebrations. Whether it is coming home to family, treating oneself to a luxurious escape, or simply savoring the splendor of the season, Solaire is the perfect backdrop for every cherished wish. Enjoy the magic of the holidays with a warm personal touch, where every moment is a treasured gift.

Solaire Resort and Hyun Bin invite everyone to celebrate the holidays the Solaire way, where indulgence meets emotion and every moment shines with meaning. For inquiries and reservations, visit solaireresort.com or call +632 8888 8888 to plan your festive holiday at Solaire.

MERRY FINDS AND SPORTY THRILLS AWAIT AT SM CITY GRAND CENTRAL!

The most wonderful time of the year just got even more exciting with new tenants joining the SM City Grand Central family, bringing smart lifestyle essentials and sports must-haves perfect for today’s fast-moving generation.

Beabi: Smart Living, Simplified

If you’re the type who can’t leave without your daily must-haves, Beabi is your new go-to stop. This lifestyle concept brand has been making organization chic since 2009, offering multi-functional travel and storage accessories that fit your every journey — whether it’s a gym day, work grind, or spontaneous city adventure. From transparent pouches and travel kits to toiletry bags and organizers, Beabi helps you fit your life in your bag, literally. With Beabi, there’s a space for everything.

Juego: Power Up Your Game

For those who’d rather smash shuttlecocks than wrap presents, Juego has everything you need to bring your A-game. As the official distributor of leading sports brands in the Philippines, Juego offers a wide selection of top-quality badminton and pickleball gear from trusted names like Li-Ning, Wilson, Joola, Franklin, Six Zero, and more. Whether you’re chasing speed, power, or control, Juego’s premium selections are made for players who want to rule the court.

So, while you’re out hunting for Christmas gifts or treating yourself this November, drop by SM City Grand Central to explore what’s new. Whether you’re organizing your life with Beabi or unleashing your energy at Juego, there’s something here to keep your holidays merry, bright, and full of play.

Visit SM City Grand Central today!

The Most Cultured Flagship Now Within Reach: The OPPO Find X9 Now Available for Pre-Order

Leading global smart device brand OPPO is ushering in a new era of artistry and technology with the OPPO Find X9, now available for pre-order in the Philippines.

Crafted as the brand’s most cultured flagship yet, the OPPO Find X9 redefines sophistication by combining breathtaking design, professional-grade imaging, and intelligent technology in one masterpiece of modern engineering.

Capturing Every Moment with Purpose and Precision 

At the heart of the OPPO Find X9 lies the Hasselblad Master Camera System, boasting a quad-camera setup that redefines mobile photography, bannered by a pro-level 50MP main camera with an ultra-large aperture that captures 57% more light than the previous generation.

The OPPO Find X9’s 50MP Periscope Telephoto combines OPPO’s exclusive Triple Prism Lens with a large sensor delivering 3x optical zoom and 6x lossless zoom. Featuring True Color Camera technology and the LUMO Image Engine, it captures life with studio-level color accuracy and detail.

Aside from its photography prowess, the OPPO Find X9 also showcases OPPO’s most remarkable jump in mobile photography - the ability to record videos in 4K resolution at 120 FPS through its main camera. This allows shooting high-quality slow-motion footage with exceptional stability.

From stunning 4K Motion Photos to cinematic 120FPS Dolby Vision video, every frame is crafted with depth and artistry. Paired with a 120x Super Zoom, it lets users discover beauty from every distance, be it a city skyline, an intimate portrait, or a faraway landscape.

Empowering Seamless Productivity with next-level AI and software 

Beyond delivering stunning visuals, the OPPO Find X9 enhances how creative individuals work, create, and live.

OPPO’s newest flagship device delivers next-level performance with the latest ColorOS 16, featuring an all-new Luminous Rendering Engine upgrade carrying two major enhancements - Unified Seamless Architecture, which  enables fluid, element-level animations and effortless transitions between system and third-party apps, and Independent Rendering, a self-developed asynchronous scheduling algorithm that boosts scrolling smoothness, reduces frame drops, and ensures consistently fast, responsive interactions

The OPPO Find X9 also introduces AI Mind Space, an intelligent app that simplifies how users capture and organize information. With a simple three-finger swipe, on-screen content—text, images, or web pages—can be saved instantly into a unified hub that automatically categorizes ideas for easy access and management.

Pushing Boundaries with Upgraded Hardware

As it continues to test the limits of smartphone photography and videography, the OPPO Find X9 is bolstered by a powerful battery and next-level chipset.

Packed with a large 7,025 mAh silicon-carbon battery, it can keep up even with the most dynamic lifestyles, complemented by 80W SUPERVOOC™ fast charging and 50W AIRVOOC™ wireless charging for quick, seamless power-ups.

Taking the OPPO Find X9 a notch higher is the newest MediaTek Dimensity 9500 chipset under its hood, along with the latest edition of Trinity Engine, which redefines chip-level resource management for sustained high performance and superior power efficiency co-developed with MediaTek.

Get the OPPO Find X9 and experience artistry, culture and technology

The OPPO Find X9 is designed for those who seek more and use technology as an expression of refinement, creativity, and individuality.

Pre-order the OPPO Find X9 (16GB + 512GB) available in sleek colorways of Titanium Grey and Space Black at P69,999 across all OPPO Brand Stores nationwide until November 20 and enjoy the following benefits:

• PHP 2,000 discount
• DJI Osmo Mobile SE Stabilizer

It will be exclusively available on OPPO’s official Shopee store on November 10 at 8 PM and you can enjoy the following perks until November 24:

• Free DJI Osmo Mobile SE
• OPPO P2000 off Product Voucher
• Shopee Platform Voucher 
• 0% Interest SPayLater
• P200 GCash cashback on positive reviews

You can also get the OPPO Find X9 through Globe Postpaid GPlan 2499 starting on November 14 with a cashout of PHP 61,000 and take home a free DJI Osmo Mobile SE, up for grabs for the first 65 buyers (both online and offline).

It will also be available via Smart Postpaid Plans +999 soon.

To know more about the OPPO Find X9, visit OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com/ph/ or OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok. 

Achieving digital sovereignty: Why PH government, enterprises must adopt sovereign cloud

Chairman of 51st PBC&E, and Converge CEO and Co-Founder Dennis Anthony Uy (right) handed over the conference resolutions to Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin during the closing ceremonies of the two-day summit.

As digital transformation accelerates globally, digital sovereignty is becoming increasingly relevant among governments and organizations that want to keep full control of their data. It means having full ownership and authority on where their data lives, who can access it, and how it’s used in the digital space.

At the 51st Philippine Business Conference and Expo (PBC&E), leading fiber broadband and technology provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc. CEO and Co-Founder Dennis Anthony Uy joins industry leaders in a plenary session on digital sovereignty to explore policy measures and frameworks that can be applied in the Philippines.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin as he delivered the keynote address, highlighting the importance of digital transformation, and calling for close collaboration among the government and business sectors for advancing national development.

This is to ensure that the country can safeguard its strategic interests as it keeps pace with global digital transformation and empowers citizens in a trusted digital environment.

For Converge, this conversation is integral as it recognizes the growing need to strengthen in-country cloud capabilities, while learning from global partners to build secure, world-class solutions. Today, Converge actively works with leading global technology companies such as Google, Amazon Web Services, Naver, Foxconn, and Tencent to bring these capabilities to life.

As Mr. Yuwon Kim, CEO of Naver Cloud, cites in his conference speech, “To preserve each nation’s diversity and heritage, there is a need for sovereignty and AI. Sovereign AI means developing and operating AI that deeply understands a nation’s culture, history and values by leveraging their own data and infrastructure.”

Foxconn, a Taiwanese electronics manufacturing giant known as the biggest contract manufacturer of Apple, addressed his company’s own growing prowess in leveraging AI. 

“What does Foxconn have to do with AI? Everything.  Foxconn is at the forefront of producing the high-performance AI data servers that power the world’s  most sophisticated AI applications and data centers,” said Lin Shi-Hao, Leader for Southeast Asia at Foxconn. 

Kenneth Siow, Regional Director Southeast Asia and General Manager, Tencent Cloud International, noted that it remains a steadfast partner of Converge as both have the same priorities in further research and development: “Cloud services, cloud native infrastructure services and big data, and AI are some of the key focus areas we will be leaning on, with strategic partners like Converge.” 

As for Converge, the company sees the importance of sovereign cloud to give the government and Filipino companies the assurance that their most sensitive data is governed by the country’s own legal frameworks.

A portion of the Converge booth in the two-day tech exhibit at the Philippine Business Conference and Expo. 

Sovereign cloud operates independently, or in hybrid form, with global cloud providers but with clear boundaries on data location, access, and control.

This is becoming increasingly important given the Philippines’ growing dependence on digital transactions. When users access websites and do online transactions with government agencies, banks, and hospitals, they hand over sensitive personal information, which most people assume is automatically protected under Philippine law. The truth is, that’s not always the case.

If an organization’s cloud systems are hosted abroad or managed by a foreign provider, their data could legally fall under the laws of another country, preventing the Philippines from fully regulating or auditing how that data is handled.

Sectors such as government, finance, healthcare, and education, among others, are the ones to benefit the most from the adoption of the sovereign cloud, as they handle vast amounts of personal and confidential information. 

For ordinary Filipinos, this gives them confidence that their data is used or shared according to what’s allowed by the country’s existing laws. At the same time, it strengthens their trust in organizations, knowing their information is safe and managed responsibly. 

Ultimately, the move toward sovereign cloud is to allow the Philippines to embrace the benefits of digital transformation while ensuring that its most critical data remains secure and processed within trusted boundaries. 

Converge CEO and Co-Founder Dennis Anthony Uy during the plenary session on digital sovereignty at the 51st Philippine Business Conference and Expo.

At the close of the two-day conference and expo, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) put forward a resolution focusing on digital transformation and innovation, urging the national government to embrace emerging technologies (in part to integrate in public service delivery), invest in broadband infrastructure, all while strengthening capacity building for the technology sector and fortifying laws and regulations in the sector.