Moving Forward to a Cleaner, Lighter 2024

More than 10 boxes of clothes, shoes, books, toys, and even household items were collected from Converge employees over a month when Segunda Mana boxes were deployed to three Converge offices. 

Converge partners with Caritas Manila for Segunda Mana donations in-kind program

The first rule of mountain climbing, as hikers and climbers will tell you, is to travel light. You can climb the steep slope and dodge obstacles faster when you have less luggage to slow you down. Similar to this, we should have a "go light" mentality and let go of the things that stand in our way as we get ready to climb the mountain that is 2024 and overcome the rocks and slopes along the way.

Converge ICT Solutions Inc. is participating in Caritas Manila's extensive in-kind donations program, Segunda Mana, in the spirit of literally and metaphorically lightening our burdens while also sharing our blessings with those in need.

All offices of Converge, from Facilities to Executive Offices pitched in for the charitable organization’s far-reaching Segunda Mana program, which will benefit scholars and entrepreneurs nationwide.

Caritas Manila receives second-hand clothes, gadgets, furniture, and books which are sent to their Charity outlets to be sold and converted to cash. These benefit over 5000 voc/tech and college scholars nationwide and support the livelihood of over 300 micro-entrepreneurs and their families from the informal sector.

“At Converge, we are committed to creating a positive impact in the communities that we serve and this partnership with Caritas Manila supports that mission, especially for those who are most in need. We are thankful to Caritas Manila for allowing us to take part in their Segunda Mana donations in-kind program and evoke compassion and kindness among our ranks during this blessed season and as we prepare to welcome the new year,” said Converge Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications and Public Relations Jay-Anne Encarnado.

If you still need convincing to participate in this benevolent cause, here are four reasons to declutter your home this New Year:

1. A cleaner space is good for your mental health

“Clearing the clutter in your physical space is similar to decluttering your mind. By simplifying our surroundings, we create space for clarity, peace, and focus. This process also allows us to contemplate what is truly important, what can be shared, and what must be let go of,” notes Ree Bringuelo, Converge Employee Health and Wellness Manager.

2. It encourages the spirit of giving within the family and community

“When the lockdown happened in 2020, there were several kind people who gave home-schooling books, toys, and clothes for my kids. These became a source of comfort for us

during a time of so much uncertainty. Now is my turn to pay it forward. I want to take this chance to teach my kids about the value of generosity and helping others.

At the same time, I hope my pre-loved items will give someone else the same joy it gave my family,” shared Assistant Vice President for Corporate Communications Karen Carvajal.

3. Decluttering contributes to living more simply and more intentionally

For those embracing a more intentional (or more values-oriented) mindset in 2024, there’s no better way to start this lifestyle than by purging our house of things that no longer serve their purpose in our lives. Living simply and intentionally also means making deliberate choices in our consumption habits so letting go of things that clutter our mind and spirit is the way to go.

4. It contributes to waste reduction

‘Recycling’ our items by way of donation is one concrete way we can contribute to a circular economy that reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. By putting our pre-loved things into new hands, they’re given life anew and may serve the needs of a new generation.

Converge is greeting 2024 with renewed hope and optimism as it turned over more than 10 boxes full last December 28, consisting of clothes, books, toys, and household tools and items. This is the first batch of donations from the company as it kicks off the program.

“I’d like to thank the employees of Converge who took part in this charitable cause, embodying the value of charity and compassion for the under-resourced. With institutional partners like Converge, we can strengthen the reach of the Catholic Church to those in need and truly make a difference,” said Rev. Fr. Anton Pascual, Executive Director of Caritas Manila.

The spirit of charity was alive and well this season as Converge employees and their families donated pre-loved but usable items to Caritas Manila. 

It's Time to Upgrade: Here's Your Guide to Festive Household Appliances

Enjoy 0% interest offers on various installment options when you shop now with Home Credit 

 

 

The most awaited time of year has arrived, and Filipinos everywhere are preparing to make it even more memorable. For many, this entails updating their home appliances in addition to decking the halls to guarantee a smooth and enjoyable Christmas season. Just before the new year begins, it is also the ideal time to update your house.  

A leading consumer loan firm in the nation, Home Credit, has some interesting home renovation options for you if you're one of those people who want to replace your worn-out, outdated appliances with new and improved models.  

Furthermore, you can now easily purchase the newest and most energy-efficient household appliances without breaking the bank thanks to household Credit's special 0% interest offer with flexible terms for up to 18 months. 

To add even more magic to your holiday season, take a look at some of the appliances below that you can buy with a Home Credit appliance loan: 

 

Condura Two Door Refrigerator 7.0cu ft 

Upgrade your kitchen with the Condura Two Door Refrigerator, boasting a spacious 7.0 cubic feet capacity. This refrigerator not only offers ample storage for all your holiday groceries and feasts but also comes with energy-saving features to help you cut down on your electricity bills. The separate compartments for the freezer and refrigerator ensure your food stays fresh, while the sleek design adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen. 

 

Panasonic Two Door No Frost Inverter with Econavi Technology Deluxe Refrigerator 10.4cu ft 

For those who need even more storage space, the Panasonic Deluxe Refrigerator with a 10.4 cubic feet capacity is the perfect choice. What sets this refrigerator apart is its No Frost technology, which prevents ice buildup and eliminates the need for manual defrosting. With its Econavi technology, it automatically adjusts the cooling depending on your usage, making it an energy-efficient choice for the eco-conscious. 

 

Say goodbye to frosty surprises and hello to a more convenient and energy-saving holiday season! 

 

Sharp 8.0kg Black Top Load Fully Auto Washing Machine 

Level up your laundry game with the Sharp 8.0kg Top Load Fully Auto Washing Machine. This appliance comes with a generous 8kg capacity, perfect for handling your holiday laundry needs. Its black and sleek design adds a modern touch to your home. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, it offers a gentle yet thorough wash while conserving water, making it not only efficient but also eco-friendly. 

 

La Germania Cooking Range 50cm, 3 Gas Burners + 1 Electric Hot Plate, Gas Oven With Thermostat Control 

Preparing holiday feasts has never been easier with the La Germania Cooking Range. With three gas burners and one electric hot plate, you have the versatility to cook multiple dishes at once. The gas oven, equipped with thermostat control, ensures that your roasts and baked goods come out perfectly every time. 

 

This 50cm cooking range combines style and functionality, making it a great addition to any kitchen. 

 

This festive season, Home Credit is here to help you realize your holiday goals and allow you to save more while enjoying the best home appliances. With Home Credit's 0% interest offer on these appliances, upgrading your home is not just a possibility but also a smart financial move. 

 

Whether you're the family breadwinner, the decision-maker for your household, or a busy mom, Home Credit's financing options allow you to enjoy top-of-the-line appliances without the burden of high upfront costs. 

 

To know more about the latest updates from Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website, www.homecredit.ph. You may also follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts. Customers are also encouraged to download the My Home Credit App on Google Play to learn more about the latest promos and see what’s new in Shopping Mall Philippines.  

  

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).  

7 Holiday Stress-Relieving Strategies

The 'ber months have begun, and Filipinos can already feel the Christmas breeze. It's that time of year when families start making plans for the most anticipated holiday in the Philippines. But, as with any event, timing is everything when it comes to making Christmas the most magical holiday of the year!

As a trusted partner in the kitchen for Filipinos, MAGGI understands that food - and sharing it with family - is at the heart of the holiday season. "Christmas is a time when home cooks bring out their most special recipes - those that they enjoy cooking and sharing with their families, especially during Noche Buena." MAGGI is here to help empower Filipino homecooks na gawing mas magical ang Pasko as they prepare, cook and transform their dishes into the most delicious Noche Buena spread,” said Ms. Raine Calma, Food & Dairy Culinary Recipe Marketing & Digital Lead.

From choosing recipes and buying ingredients to cooking and welcoming guests on Christmas eve, MAGGI shares 7 secrets to enjoying a stress-free holiday season!

1. Explore menu-making hacks – Homecooks need a game plan and MAGGI (https://www.maggi.ph/magicalpasko) is here to serve some menu inspiration. Noche Buena cooking is made easier with access to over 100 recipes that make holiday meals extra special. It's best to lock in your headcount so that you can modify the recipe based on the number of servings you need. 

2. Make a list and check it twice – With a menu in place, it’s time to check the pantry and do an inventory of ingredients. List down the quantities of items needed before heading to the supermarket. A quick check in the grocery's online shelves can help ensure stocks and availability. Holiday traffic is real and so grocery runs should be planned in advance.
   
   

3. Do a test run if cooking a recipe for the first time – Trying out a new dish can be overwhelming. With enough lead time, homecooks can do a trial and have loved ones give comments to improve on the dish. By using only the best seasonings like MAGGI Magic Sarap and its variety of Savor and cube products, they can transform any dish from pwede na to sarap-sustansya and magical levels. 

4. Make ahead whenever possible – Cooking everything all in one day can be tiring. Homecooks can start pre-cooking certain components of the dish to help lessen their kitchen load on celebration day. Meat stews, marinades, embutido, pasta sauces and cookie batter can be prepared a few days ahead. This means planning for fridge space will be crucial to ensure dishes keep well until it's time to serve them.

5. Save the fresh for last – Fruits and vegetables can be purchased in the morning to retain its freshness. Adding fresh pineapple to an all-time favorite fruit salad will elevate the dish. 

6. A little help goes a long way – This is the perfect bonding time for the family, when homecooks pass on their cooking techniques and share their passion for food with their children. The joy in cooking will translate in your dish, too!

7. Give your Noche Buena table setting an added flair – Adorn the dining table with bits and pieces of Christmas to make the Noche Buena gathering even more memorable. It can be as simple as a red ceramic platter for your chosen entrée, scattering a few Christmas balls or adding candles with gold ribbons for an added touch of magic.  

According to Calma, these simple tips from MAGGI are aimed at helping homecooks manage their time, resources and energy. “The holiday rush can get the best of us because we only want the best for the people we love. Proper planning can make all the difference and allow the whole family to spend more time together, celebrating and enjoying their most magical Noche Buena yet.”

CAMANAVA'S SM MALLS BRING CHRISTMAS JOY TO UNSUNG STREET HEROES

The routines of street sweepers, garbage collectors, and pedicab drivers were turned upside down when SM Malls in Valenzuela, Sangandaan, and Grand Central, including SM Savemore Malabon, planned a heartwarming surprise for these vital community workers.

SM City Grand Central

These vital street workers, whose efforts often go unnoticed in the daily rush, received a special Christmas gift from SM. Christmas packs brimming with necessities and delectable treats were distributed throughout the CAMANAVA area. The initiative aimed not only to spread Christmas cheer, but also to recognize and appreciate the dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to keep cities clean and functional.

SM Center Sangandaan

SM City Grand Central took the lead by distributing a total of 400 Christmas cheers to pedicab drivers and other transport groups in Barangay 35, Maypajo, Caloocan. Meanwhile, SM Center Sangandaan and SM Savemore Malabon added to the festive spirit by generously handing out 190 and 120 Christmas Cheers to street clearing personnel and jeepney drivers in Malabon, Navotas, and Caloocan. SM City Valenzuela also extended the Christmas joy by distributing 190 Christmas packs to essential street workers residing in Karuhatan, Valenzuela.

SM Valenzuela

A joint project of SM Foundation Inc. and SM Supermalls, SM Christmas Cheers aims to give love and happiness to the communities the mall serves. This heartwarming event was also made possible through the collaborative efforts of SM Cares, SM affiliates, and dedicated SM volunteers.

As the holiday spirit continues to thrive, SM City Grand Central and SM Center Sangandaan will spread more joy by conducting rounds of gift-giving for underprivileged children at the Tahanang Mapagkalinga Social Development Center on December 19, 2023. 

SM City Taytay launched Holiday Dream of Sparkles

Last October 28, SM City Taytay officially kicked off the Christmas season with the lighting of its official tree with the theme Holiday Dreams of Sparkles. This was only a day after the newly renovated SM City Taytay Food Court reopened. This is a special day because the giant Christmas tree lights up, delighting both young and old. 

The Concourse Singer

Cloud 7

The Concourse Singer, led by Mr. Leo Landicho, performed very special Christmas carols to add more sparkle to the event. Cloud 7, a fast-rising PinoyPop group, also performed a lively rendition of popular Christmas songs as everyone awaited the official lighting of the giant centerpiece.

SM City Taytay Mall Manager, Raymond Bonifacio, Taytay MPS OIC PLtCol Gaylor Pagala, Taytay Mayor Allan Martine De Leon, SM Supermalls Asst Vice President Mr. John Brian Tarnate, and Taytay Councilor Tobit Cruz.

Taytay MPS OIC PLtCol Gaylor Pagala, Taytay Mayor Allan Martine De Leon, SM Supermalls Asst Vice President Mr. John Brian Tarnate, and Taytay Councilor Tobit Cruz were all present during the ceremony.

Visit SM City Taytay to feel the start of the holiday season! More information is available at https://www.facebook.com/smtaytay.

SM Supermalls Launches 100 Days of Christmas

Surprising shoppers every day till December 25. 

 

The countdown to Christmas Day begins on September 16 as SM launches a host of fun activities, deals, and surprises for each member of the family. 

It starts with surprises each day! From September 16 to December 25, someone lucky will be surprised, one mall at a time, with toys, gifts, groceries and meals on us as SM begins 100 Days of Christmas Surprises. Which mall will delight someone today? Come to SM to find out! 

WHAT ELSE IS A-HAPPENIN’? 

Breathtaking Spectacles, to mark the festive season, will dazzle you at your favorite SM mall. Your favorite malls will all be dressed with a dazzling display of holiday magic and sparkling Christmas centerpieces await shoppers inside the malls for that IG-worthy moment. 

Start your holiday gift shopping early on with a trove of artisan products and services from local MSMEs at the Holiday Bazaars. Toys, games, and collectibles are waiting to make this holiday season unforgettable at the Christmas Toy Fairs, in partnership with Toy Kingdom and Toy Kingdom Express. 

Santa Claus is coming to town, and he’s bringing his merry squad along! Captivating performances, musicales, ensure there’s something for everyone at every visit.

Pets are family too, and SM Supermalls knows it!  Bring your furry friends to select SM malls for a pawsome Christmas Pawty packed with games and prizes for furbabies in pet costumes. 

Welcome our Overseas Filipino Workers and Families! With the help of BDO Kabayan, SM Supermalls will be bringing holiday cheer to our modern-day heroes at the Pamaskong Handog by BDO Kabayan in SM City Cebu, SM City Fairview, and SM City General Santos with Superstars, prizes, and laughs galore. 

Let’s not forget that you can make a positive impact on the lives of those in need while enjoying your shopping. Buy one SM Cares’ Bears of Joy, and we will donate to one underprivileged child. 

And the fun never ends! On News Year’s Eve, welcome 2024 with an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration at SM Mall of Asia, SM Seaside Cebu, SM Lanang, and SM CDO Uptown. 

To know more about SM Supermalls’ 100 Days of Surprises, visit https://gosm.link/100DaysOfChristmasSurprises for daily surprise videos, www.smsupermalls.com, and follow @SMSupermalls on social media for all the Christmas surprises!