Hanabishi Launches “Cheers to HappyMess” Campaign with Online-Exclusive Freebies

“As families prepare for the numerous parties and celebrations in the coming months, we at Hanabishi and our friends from Cheers would like to make it easier for everyone to enjoy their gatherings with family and friends. At Hanabishi, we have always aimed at providing Filipino households with practical and affordable solutions that will help them with their everyday needs. With Cheers, we’ve found a partner that shares our passion for making life in the kitchen simpler, cleaner, and more importantly, a lot more fun especially during the holidays. We encourage everyone to embrace the HappyMess of the holidays.” ~Cherish Ong-Chua, Hanabishi Appliances VP for Marketing and Finance

Hanabishi Appliances has teamed up with kitchen and party essentials brand Cheers just in time for the holidays to make cooking more enjoyable and less stressful.  

This festive cooperation between two trusted Filipino companies offers a free Cheers item with every purchase of select Hanabishi items on www.myhanabishi.com, Hanabishi TikTok Shop, and TikTok Live.

Enjoy Convenience and Savings

The appliances and their corresponding freebies are available until supplies last. The bundles include the following:

• Every Hanabishi Electric Oven or Griller purchase comes with a free Cheers Aluminum Foil.
• Every Hanabishi Microwave Oven or Air Fryer purchase comes with a free Cheers Baking Paper.
• Every Hanabishi Professional Stand Mixer or Cooker (Induction/Ceramic) comes with a free Cheers Cling Wrap.
• Every Hanabishi Commercial Blender or Pressure Cooker purchase comes with a Cheers Dishwashing Liquid (lemon or orange).
• Every Hanabishi Juice Blender purchase comes with a free Cheers Scrub Buddies.
• Every Hanabishi Sandwich Maker, Waffle Maker, or Panini Press purchase comes with a free Cheers Snack Bag.
• Every Hanabishi Refrigerator, Food Steamer, Hand Blender, or Toaster purchase comes with free Cheers Zipper Storage Bags.
• Every HASREF18INV Refrigerator purchase comes with a free Cheers Kitchen Towel.

To learn more about Hanabishi Appliances, visit www.myhanabishi.com. Follow Hanabishi and Cheers on their official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts.

Sogo Cares Donates Aircon Units and Linens to Justice Abad Santos Hospital

Sogo Cares continues to support organizations that are essential to public health in keeping with its aim to "Bridge Gaps to Build Better Communities." A significant donation to the Justice Abad Santos General Hospital, which serves thousands of patients from impoverished areas, demonstrated this commitment once more.

In this outreach program, Sogo Cares, together with Mr. Edmundo Las, Board of Director, Ms. Mariel Quinto, Advertising and Promotions Manager, and Hotel Sogo Avenida Branch Manager, Ms. Kithley Esperanzate, delivered over three (3) air-conditioning units and new sets of linens to the hospital.

This donation directly addresses one of the hospital’s major needs: providing a cooler, cleaner, and more healing environment for patients who normally suffer long waiting hours and packed wards. At the same time, it delivers relief and improved working conditions for healthcare workers who diligently serve the community every day.

By filling these resource gaps, Sogo Cares reinforces the heart of its advocacy, helping institutions deliver better care even with limited means.

“Sa bawat proyektong may puso, nandyan ang Sogo Cares.” ~the team shared, underscoring how genuine support, whether big or small, creates meaningful change in people’s lives

This initiative forms part of Hotel Sogo’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program under Sogo Cares, which focuses on projects that promote health, education, and community development across the country

Through efforts like this, Sogo Cares continues to bridge gaps and build better communities by uplifting facilities that serve the Filipino public every day.

For more information, visit any Hotel Sogo branch near your area. With over 50 branches nationwide, Sogo Cares continues to serve communities across the Philippines. You may also follow www.facebook.com/HotelSogoOfficialPage for the latest news, promos, and CSR updates.

Kingston Launches Dual Portable SSD Storage Solution

“More and more consumers are looking to take their data into their own hands. Now with the convenience of Kingston’s Dual Portable SSD, users can do just that and easily transfer, share or backup their important files across a variety of USB-A and USB-C devices.”  ~Kingston

Kingston Technology, a global leader in memory and technology solutions, announced the release of its first cable-free solid-state drive for anyone looking for a portable, durable, and fairly priced option for data backup and transfers.

With the stylish form of a classic flash drive in a compact, solid metal housing, the Dual Portable SSD can quickly transfer files between USB Type-A and USB-C®1 devices such as laptops, desktops, mobile devices and more with USB 3.2 Gen 2 rates up to 1,050MB/s read and 950MB/s write2.   This all-in-one storage and transfer solution will increase productivity and enhance your workflow with capacities up to 2TB for massive files, high-resolution photos, and 4K films.

Dual Portable SSD is available in capacities3 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB and is backed by a limited five-year warranty5, free technical support, and legendary Kingston reliability.

For more information visit kingston.com.

Kingston Dual Portable SSD Features and Specifications:

• Fits your life: All in one, and one for all...of your devices that is. With both USB-A and USB-C connectors, the Dual Portable SSD easily transfers files between your devices: laptops, desktop, mobile and more.
• The speed you need: Amplify your creative productivity with USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds up to 1,050MB/s read and 950MB/s write2.
• Ditch the cable: Life is messy enough without the chaos of cable management. Keep it simple and go cable-free. Palm, pocket or purse, this compact and sleek SSD fits virtually anywhere.
• Store more, create more: Get reliable storage for your large files, high-resolution photos and 4K videos up to 2TB3.
• Interface: USB Type-A and USB Type-C®
• Standard/Speed2: USB 3.2 Gen 2; Up to 1,050MB/s read, 950MB/s write
• NAND: 3D
• Capacities3: 512GB, 1TB, 2TB
• Dimensions: 71.85mm x 21.1mm x 8.6mm
• Weight: 13g
• Casing Material: Metal + Plastic
• Operating temperature: 0°C~60°C
• Storage temperature: -20°C~85°C
• Warranty/support4: Limited 5-year warranty with free technical support
• Compatible with5: Windows® 11, macOS® (v. 13.7.6 +), Linux (v. 4.4x +), Chrome OS™, Android™, iOS/iPadOS® (v.13+)

Kingston can be found on:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KingstonAPAC

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/KingstonAPAC

Happy Skin Makes a Grand Entrance at SM City Grand Central

At SM City Grand Central, Filipinas now have a new cause to smile: soft-focus skin, weightless colors, and that distinct, radiant glow. Happy Skin, a well-known domestic beauty brand that skillfully combines skincare and cosmetics, has officially opened its newest location, bringing its beloved essentials closer to the busy, beauty-loving people of the Northern Metro.

Filipina women have long tried to find affordable skincare products and makeup that improves without causing harm. Happy Skin has been revolutionizing local beauty for more than a decade with products that nourish skin while you use them since they cracked the code in 2013. The brand's newest presence at SM City Grand Central makes it even easier for local beauty enthusiasts to fulfill that promise.

The store itself embodies the brand's unique aesthetic, which is roomy, contemporary, and tidy with subtle pink accents and warm neutrals that create a calm, inviting atmosphere.   The real attraction, though, is the experience: a carefully curated playground of skincare and makeup items from the world's beauty capitals, like Taiwan, Korea, and Japan, all made with skin-loving components suited to the Philippines' environment and the range of Filipina skin tones.

Happy Skin's popular "Eye Am Here to Stay" gel eyeliner and "Shut Up & Kiss Me" lippies, along with its weightless tints and hydrating skincare products, are now for sale.   Every product is created with components that offer basic skin care and attractiveness, making it easier than ever for women to feel and look their best.

The SM City Grand Central launch supports Happy Skin's mission to empower women with products that effortlessly blend style and skincare. Happy Skin's quirky packaging, straightforward formulas, and commitment to cruelty-free, skin-friendly care continue to show that glowing, healthy skin is always in style.

Visit SM City Grand Central and discover the perfect balance of glow and care that your skin will thank you.

Pru Life UK Strengthens Commitment to Inclusive Education with Adopt-a-Madrasah Rollout in CDO

“At Pru Life UK, we firmly believe that education is a powerful driver of change, which is why we, together with our partners, continue to strive to ensure opportunities are available to everyone. Through the expansion of the Adopt-a-Madrasah programme, we hope to broaden our impact by helping equip more Muslim communities with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to build sustainable futures—and to prove to them that they can count on us anytime.” ~Maricel Estavillo, Pru Life UK’s Sustainability and Takaful Head

Atty. Mabelle Nebres, Pru Life UK AVP for Sustainability & Takaful (center, holding the microphone), leads a fun and meaningful Takaful Comics presentation and reading session.

Pru Life UK is expanding its Adopt-a-Madrasah program to Cagayan de Oro in an attempt to better support impoverished Muslim communities in Mindanao.

As part of its Takaful journey, Pru Life UK aims to empower more Muslim communities through the Adopt-a-Madrasah program, which highlights the importance of financial security, technical upskilling, and climate and health preparation.   Pru Life UK was granted the first Takaful (Islamic insurance) operator license in the country by the Insurance Commission.

The initiative's year-end culmination is the opening of the Adopt-a-Madrasah in Cagayan de Oro.  The rollout expands on the program's successful execution in Bangkal, Davao City earlier this year, where three community Madaris were also given digital learning tools in partnership with LiteHaus International and Humble Sustainability, two of Pru Life UK's circular economy partners.

Pru Life UK VP for Sustainability and Takaful head Maricel Estavillo (fourth from left) joins Madrasah principals and the Pru Life UK team for the distribution of IT assets to support learning in Muslim communities

In 2024, Pru Life UK staff and agent volunteers performed a creative workshop, distributed school supplies, and provided hygiene kits as part of the Adopt-a-Madrasah program.

These programs are implemented in cooperation with local Muslim community leaders and government partners.   via the program, the company reaffirms its mission to enhance lives via sustainable development, empowerment, and education while acting as a dependable partner and protector for coming generations.

To learn more about Pru Life UK and its sustainability programmes, visit www.prulifeuk.com.ph

About Pru Life UK

Pru Life UK is the leading life insurer in the Philippines demonstrating its commitment to protect Filipinos’ financial future and well-being for every life, for every future.  

 

Established in 1996, Pru Life UK operates in over 200 branches and general agency offices in the Philippines, and holds the largest life insurance agency force of close to 38,000 licensed agents. 

  

Pru Life UK offers a wide range of tailored solutions that address the unique and evolving needs across demographics and life stages. These include life protection, health, accident and disability, and investment-linked insurance.   

Currently, Pru Life UK serves over 930,000 individual policyholders and more than 85,000 insured group members, and ranks first in New Business Annual Premium Equivalent* as of Q2 2025, according to the Insurance Commission.   

Pru Life UK is a subsidiary of Prudential plc, with a legacy of more than 175 –years of safeguarding the future of millions of families for this generation and generations to come.   

Pru Life UK is headquartered in 9/F Uptown Place Tower 1,1 East 11th Drive, Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its main customer center is located in G/F Cluster 2, Uptown Parade, Megaworld Blvd. corner 36th street Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its customer center contact details are: +63 (2) 88875433 (within Metro Manila) and 1-800-107785465 (for domestic toll-free via PLDT landline), email: contact.us@prulifeuk.com.ph. 

The PRU customer center processes customer concerns based on applicable timelines provided by the law. Visit www.prulifeuk.com.ph/en/contact-us/ for the list of its branches and more information. 

Pru Life UK is legally permitted to provide financial products or services in the Philippines as regulated by the Insurance Commission. 

The Insurance Commission’s head office is located in 1071 United Nations Avenue Ermita, Manila, Philippines. Their Cebu District office is located at Unit 17, Ground and Second Floors, The Gallery, Pope John Paul II Avenue, Barangay Kasambagan, Cebu City, while their Davao District office is in Door 2 & 3, 3rd Floor of YAP Building Quimpo Boulevard, Ecoland, Davao City. Visit www.insurance.gov.ph/contact-us/ for more information. 

Fusion 2025: The OEd Community Comes Together

There are those rare occasions that spark something, and some get-togethers just happen. For Fusion at The Fifth at Rockwell, the OEd (Online Education) community came together. This evening deftly blended inspirational lectures, stimulating conversations, and a celebration of what modern education can be: accessible, forward-thinking, and deeply human.

From the moment guests entered the room—many of whom were dressed in their best denim as a lighthearted homage to the theme—the atmosphere was unmistakably OEd: welcoming, thrilling, and brimming with a sense of community.   It was the kind of energy that only emerges when educators, leaders, visionaries, and students gather in one location.

A Celebration of Learning That Adapts to Real Life

Fusion has shown why Philippine education is still influenced by OEd (Online Education), which has long been credited for redefining what it means to learn in the digital age.

Fusion dared to deviate from traditional events, which place an emphasis on formality. It was a communal gathering, a learning festival, and a celebration all at once. It captured the essence of OEd's mission, which is to empower every Filipino student through technology, flexibility, and genuine connection.

A Program That Fed Both the Mind and the Spirit

The evening evolved through careful layers, starting with an energetic opening performance by OEd students and the warm, lively hosting of Nicole Hyala, whose charisma instantly warmed the room. Next were Christopher Satulan's remarks, which emphasized community, commitment, and how platforms like OEd continue to change lives one kid at a time. In a speech on behalf of Dr. Amable C. Aguiluz IX, the founder of OEd, Oliver Vergara honored the organization's longstanding heritage of developing an educational system that adapts to students rather than the other way around.

Guests were then treated to a thoughtfully curated lineup of speakers: Ericson Del Castillo, who explored The Future of Work Skills and how learners can stay competitive in a rapidly shifting world; Coach JC Libiran, who emphasized The Importance of Ethical Behavior in the Workplace as a foundation for meaningful, values-based success; and Cleo Viray, who closed the discussions with Re-Charge Mode: Caring for Your Mental Battery, a timely reminder to prioritize mental wellness amid everyday demands.

Warmth and flair were added to the program by intermission performances by soulful Nolo Lopez, known for his passionate, uplifting stage presence, and powerhouse vocalist Sephy Francisco, whose immaculate dual-voice skill never fails to astound. Their performances provided the perfect moments to pause, inhale deeply, and re-establish contact before going back to the revelations of the evening.

A Night That Ended With Community and Celebration

An Acquaintance Party, which brought parents and OEd partners together with SHS, Undergraduate, and Postgraduate students in a joyful blend, marked the end of Fusion. It demonstrated how close-knit and intimate an online academic community can be. Dancing, snapping photos, laughing, and uninhibited delight were all part of the evening.

More Than an Event—A Reminder of Why Education Must Evolve

Fusion was a statement that education needs to keep changing, not just a program.  No matter where they are in their journey, OEd (Online Education) remains dedicated to its mission: education that is flexible, adapts to real life, and empowers Filipinos.

Here’s to more breakthroughs, more collaboration, and more empowered learners. Here’s to OEd—and to the many lives it continues to transform.

Quick Bites, Conti's Delights at SM Bulacan Malls

An OG has come in SM Bulacan malls, and we’re completely here for it.   Presenting Conti's Take Out Nooks, which serves delectable sweets and freshly baked cakes and is presently accessible at SM City Baliwag and SM Center Pulilan.

Now that Conti's Take Out Nooks has finally opened on the ground level of SM City Baliwag and SM Center Pulilan, guests may conveniently take breads, pies, pastries, cookies, frozen ready-to-eat dishes, and, of course, famed cakes.

Whether it's a modest "pick-me-up" moment, a celebration, or a gift, know that Conti's is just a short distance away to make the day. For food alerts and promos, check out https://www.facebook.com/smbaliwag and https://www.facebook.com/smcenterpulilan.

Acclaimed Author Segundo Matias Jr. to release sequel to Batang Poz

“Melody, the new character, is especially important to me. If her story reaches video, there is so much within her journey that viewers can learn from. Through Melody’s experiences, the novel discusses both teenage pregnancy and living with HIV. The discussions in this book are deeper and more technical. In Stigma, I made it a point to provide clear guidance on staying safe. I want to highlight the importance of PrEP and consistently advocating condom use for protection. While the first book conveyed the horrors surrounding HIV, the second installment focuses on empowerment and dismantling stigma. That alone makes me happy. For a writer like me, being able to convey a meaningful message through one’s work is already a victory.” ~Segundo Matias Jr., Palanca Award-winning and best-selling author

Melody, 15, joins Stigma: Batang Poz 2's "Pete's Corner" group chat, which acts as a virtual safe haven for young HIV-positive individuals like her. As her pregnancy becomes more obvious, she must deal with the stigma while finding solace in the stories of other young people who identify as Poz, including the well-known characters from the first book. The follow-up looks at survival, connection, solidarity, and the search for optimism amid the HIV-AIDS catastrophe in the Philippines.

A sequel that challenges as it confronts

Stigma: In the age of social media and digital connectedness, Batang Poz 2, the first young adult book about HIV/AIDS in the Philippines, has been hailed as a landmark piece of literature and public health that challenges prejudice and calls for compassion.   The original Batang Poz novel, which was praised by critics for its courageous and honest portrayal of living with HIV, served as the inspiration for a powerful 2019 iWant miniseries starring Paolo Gumabao, Mark Neumann, and Awra Briguela.   The sequel seeks to remind us of the importance of empathy, understanding, and solidarity in the struggle against prejudice while also shedding light on the actual experiences of People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV).

Stigma: Batang Poz 2 also delivers engaging and practical information on sexual health and empowerment. 

Early praise for Stigma: Batang Poz 2

The novel has garnered advanced praise from notable critics, writers, and advocates in the Philippines. 

Internationally acclaimed essayist and winner of the Curt Johnson Prose Award for Nonfiction, Wifredo Pascual commends Matias’ masterful craftmanship, noting his skill in crafting “solid and meaningful” scenes.

“His sharp eye in choosing the most telling detail is critical in bringing this to light. It’s urgent. And it’s a question worth asking ourselves as readers. How far are we willing to go to get to the source of our discomfort and denial? With Stigma: Batang Poz 2, Segundo Matias, Jr. departs completely from the fantastical concerns of Moymoy Lulumboy and takes his readers close to what they would otherwise deny: their deepest fears and most unacknowledged prejudices. Matias’s courage is enabling. He provides his audience with a different experience and creates a new horizon for YA writers who may not yet have the will, or wherewithal, to explode social taboos.” ~Wifredo Pascual, Internationally acclaimed essayist and winner of the Curt Johnson Prose Award for Nonfiction

Multi-awarded poet, scholar, and teacher Charlie Samuya-Veric, celebrates Matias’ commitment to making “courageous writing contagious.”

Mark Angeles, award-winning author of Gagambeks, also praises the book for widening the conversations around subjects often deemed controversial and taboo.

"Binuksan sa atin ng Mga Batang Poz ang makulay na mundo ng mga alter—isang produkto ng immersion ng awtor sa internet subculture na ito.” ~Mark Angeles, award-winning author of Gagambeks

Matias hopes the sequel will empower readers, especially young adults, to face the world’s challenges with courage and clarity.

Health hubs have told me that more people are getting tested because they read Mga Batang Poz. 

Segundo Matias, Jr.’s Stigma: Batang Poz will be available soon.

Fuel your grind with the “Huwow sa Pinoy Sarap” goodness of SB19’s go-to snack

“Nakakapagod ang training at rehearsals namin, pero worth it para sa mga A’TIN. That’s why it’s nice to have a snack like Mang Juan na talagang nakakagana sa sarap.” ~Stell

P-Pop Group SB19 Justin and Josh with their favorite Kropek ni Mang Juan. 

Most of Filipinos are continuously on the go, whether it's for side gigs, early calls, late-night grinds, or anything in between. But in a world where the hustle never stops, sometimes a little respite coupled with delicious food can keep one going.

Mang Juan is an authentically Filipino snack that can help fuel one's grind, with a lineup that includes favorites like Chicken Skin ni Mang Juan and Chicharron ni Mang Juan in traditional Filipino flavors. 

The light and crunchy seafood flavors of Kropek ni Mang Juan offer another reason to continue eating, in addition to the traditional flavors that Filipinos enjoy, such as P-pop Kings SB19.

Rich in "Huwow sa Pinoy Sarap" sweetness, each crunchy mouthful of Kropek ni Mang Juan delivers a novel twist on the classic seafood flavors while preserving the essence of what makes Mang Juan a Filipino favorite.

Whether you want moderately hot chips or sweet-salty nibbles, Kropek ni Mang Juan's Sweet Chili Hipon and hot Fried Pusit flavors will meet your needs.   Made to match your drive and fire, these seafood-flavored snacks are delectable, light, and truly Filipino.   Sweet Chili Hipon provides the ideal tamis-alat kick, while Spicy Fried Pusit wakes your senses with saktong anghang and asim at alat.

And when it comes to hustling, who better to relate to than SB19? The P-pop kings know the grind all too well—with rehearsals, tours, and shoots that usually require peak energy and passion. 

So whether you're in study mode or gearing up for another long day, fuel your grind and grab a bite of Mang Juan for that “Huwow!” snacking experience.

Enjoy the seafood flavors of Kropek ni Mang Juan – Spicy Fried Pusit and the newest release, Sweet Chili Hipon.

If you haven’t tried SB19’s go-to snack, Mang Juan, this is your sign to try it for yourself. Just like them, fuel your grind with the nakaka-Huwow sa Pinoy Sarap goodness of Kropek ni Mang Juan. From the classic Chicharron and Chicken Skin to the newest addition, Kropek ni Mang Juan, the total Mang Juan snack lineup just keeps getting better.

Visit and grab a pack of Mang Juan at your nearest supermarkets, groceries, and convenience stores nationwide.

Universal Robina Corporation (URC) produces iconic brands such as Jack ‘n Jill Piattos, Cloud 9, Maxx candy, Cream-O, Payless, C2 Cool and Clean, and Great Taste coffee, which have been part of Filipinos’ lives for decades. Known for its bold flavors, Mang Juan delivers top-quality snacking with its Kropek line—made to be crisp, flavorful, and budget-friendly, making it a go-to choice for Filipino snack fans. To learn more about URC, visit its website, Facebook Page and TikTok Account.

VOLTME, Grand Opening of its Newest Kiosk at the 5th Level SM City North EDSA

“This kiosk is not just a store—it’s a new home for innovations.” ~Holden Lo (Global Brand Manager, VOLTME)

On November 24, 2025, VOLTME, a fast-growing global business known for its powerful and innovative charging devices, proudly celebrated the grand opening of its newest kiosk at the 5th Level SM City North EDSA – The Annex in Quezon City, Philippines. VOLTME expands retail reach, now more accessible to a bigger market.

L-R: Igue Bonifacio (Integrated Marketing Manager & Business Development Lead, Cognetics), Michele Lyn Ong (Leasing Manager SM City North EDSA, SM Supermalls), Tommy Tse (Chief Operation Officer, Voltnex Innovations), Holden Lo (Brand Manager, Voltnex Innovations), Kristine Santos-Choa (Division Manager, Cognetics), and Rachael Trajano (Senior Product Manager, Cognetics)

The launch's brief program was attended by executives from SM Supermalls, VOLTME, and Cognetics. Members of the media and content development partners graced the occasion, adding to the excitement and foot traffic at the new location.

The event showed how committed VOLTME is to giving Filipino consumers more reasonably priced, reliable, and stylish charging options.

This new kiosk allows them to provide their most cutting-edge fast-charging technology, powerful charging products, and accessories closer to their customers, giving them more power, convenience, and confidence in their everyday mobile experience. They also intend to launch additional locations across the nation in 2026 as they continue to expand.

Among the newest products that visitors could view in person were the VOLTME Hypercore Rollz 10K Powerbank and the VOLTME GaNZero 5K Hybrid Power Charger, along with the full line of fast chargers, power banks, cables, and mobile accessories.

The new VOLTME kiosk at the 5th Level at SM City North EDSA – The Annex is now officially open to serve shoppers looking for performance-driven and dependable tech accessories.

Media Contact:

John Rusell

APAC Marketing Director

Voltnex Innovations

Email: john_mkt@voltme.com

Website: www.voltme.com

Kent Buaya

Marketing Officer

Cognetics Philippines

Email: kentreley_buaya@mailgateways.com

Website: www.cognetics.ph

About VOLTME

VOLTME is a leading innovator in charging technology, offering a wide range of power solutions, including GaN chargers, power banks, and smart charging accessories. Committed to sustainability and innovation, VOLTME continues to push the boundaries of charging efficiency and design.

About Cognetics Philippines

Cognetics Philippines is a premier distributor of consumer electronics and technology solutions, dedicated to providing high-quality products and services to retailers and consumers across the Philippines.

McDonald’s Grand Reunion Brings People Back Together for the Holidays

“By creating spaces where groups can once again gather meaningfully, McDonald’s taps directly into the Filipino cultural values of pagsasama-sama, pagsasalo-salo, and gratitude. It offers a simple yet heartfelt reminder that those who help make Christmas special for others deserve their own celebration too. In a season that can often feel overwhelming with crowded schedules, growing expenses, and emotional demands, Grand Reunion at McDo offers a refreshing alternative, a warm, uncomplicated, and inclusive holiday gathering that doesn’t require grand preparations.” ~Ada Lazaro, Chief Marketing Officer at McDonald's Philippines

Many Filipinos look forward to Christmas more than any other holiday. It's time for long-awaited grand reunions, in which family and friends reunite after months or even years away. It is one of the most popular traditions in the country. However, not everyone has the opportunity to plan such gatherings. Some people spend the holidays apart from their families, missing out on the joys of being together.

This year, McDonald's Philippines plans to bridge that gap by providing free celebrations to specific communities. Known as "Grand Reunion at McDo," this statewide holiday initiative will transform select McDonald's Party Rooms into festive settings for meaningful reunions taking place simultaneously across the country, restoring the warmth of the season to those who need it the most.

How to be part of McDonalds’ Grand Reunion

Customers are invited to visit the McDonald's Philippines Facebook site and share their story on the Grand Reunion post, outlining their reasons for wanting to get back together, what kept them apart, and what makes their relationship unique.   On December 8 from 2-4 p.m., McDonald's will host groups of up to 10 individuals, with two groups per party room for a total of 20 guests.

In addition to a heartwarming and original story, participants will be selected based on how well their stories convey the spirit of community during the Christmas season.   Participants are free to select the McDonald's location of their choice.

Each party will receive boxes of Honey Butter Chicken McDo augmented with a "shake, tear, and sprinkle" moment using Garlic Parmesan and Snow Cheese Powder. It's a simple tradition that makes the meal enjoyable for everyone. Apart from facilitating light games and toasts, a McDonald's "Happiness Host" will help create a more memorable and social atmosphere.

Reinforcing Filipino values

Lazaro added the initiative aims to reinforce Filipino values of bonding and connection during the Christmas season by offering a venue for meaningful reunions.

For more information about McDonald’s Philippines, visit www.mcdonalds.com.ph, McDo.ph on Meta, on Instagram, and on X. 

The Palawan Group of Companies welcomes 158 new scholars, building dreams and shaping Futures

“Kami ng aking asawa at ang aming limang anak ay mga scholars din noon. Kaya naman, nang magsimulang lumaki ang Palawan Pawnshop noong 1998, naisip namin na mainam na magkaroon din kami ng scholarship program para makatulong sa mga estudyanteng may pangarap at nagsisikap. Nagsimula kami noon sa sampu, hanggang nadadagdagan taon-taon.” (Our entire family — my wife, our five children, and I — were also once scholars. Those opportunities helped shape our future. That’s why, in 1998, as Palawan Pawnshop began to grow, my wife and I thought it was only right to start a scholarship program to support underprivileged students with big dreams. We began with just ten scholars, and the number has continued to grow each year). ~Bobby L. Castro, Founder and Chairman

The 28th batch of PGC scholars gathers for a milestone moment as they officially join the Palawan Group of Companies’ growing community of future leaders.

The Palawan Group of Companies welcomed 158 new scholars as part of its continuous commitment to enhancing the lives of Filipinos. Education is one of the cornerstones of the company's major CSR initiative, the Palawan Group of Companies Scholarship Program (PGC-SP). A Confirmation and Orientation Day was held at the company's Puerto Princesa City headquarters to formally welcome the 28th class of PGC-SP.

Founder and Chairman Bobby L. Castro reflected on how scholarships shaped his own family’s journey.

Chairman Bobby L. Castro speaks from the heart, reminding scholars that education, paired with perseverance, can transform lives — just as it did for his own family.

Chief Human Resources Officer, Korina Castro-Fernando, delivered a heartfelt address to the new batch.

With sincerity and hope, CHRO Korina Castro-Fernando inspires the scholars to study with dedication and live by strong values in all they do.

“Kayo ang mga mukha ng pag-asa, mukha ng inspirasyon ng ating bayan. Mag-aral kayo nang may pagsisikap. Walang kapalit ang scholarship na ito. Ang bilin ko lang, paghusayan ninyo ang inyong pag-aaral, at laging piliing maging mabuting tao.” (You are the faces of hope, the inspiration of our nation. We do not ask for anything in return from our scholars, but if I may offer advice: study well, strive hard, and always choose to be a good person). ~Korina Castro-Fernando, Chief Human Resources Officer

Meanwhile, Deputy Chairman and Co-founder, Angelita M. Castro, reminded the scholars that true education extends beyond academics.

Angelita M. Castro calls on scholars to be informed, principled citizens — urging them to pursue success with integrity and a deep love for the nation.

“Kailangan alam niyo ang nangyayari sa ating bayan. Iisa lang ang bansa natin, kaya nararapat itong mahalin at ingatan. Bilang aming mga iskolar, ang hiling ko sa inyo: kapag mga propesyunal na kayo, pakaingatan ang inyong integridad at ‘wag na ‘wag magiging korap. Piliin ang umunlad at makatulong sa pamilya sa malinis na paraan.” (You must be aware of social issues and protect the integrity of our nation. We only have one country, so we should love and protect it. As our scholars, my ask of you is this: someday, when you are in a position, when you have become professionals, maintain your integrity and never be corrupt. Work hard to succeed in your chosen paths and support your families with honesty and compassion. ~Angelita M. Castro, Deputy Chairman and Co-founder

The heartfelt messages from the members of the Board of Directors were met with a sincere response delivered on behalf of the batch by Lovie Ubay, a BA Communication student at Palawan State University.

Scholar Lovie Ubay steps up with gratitude and pride, pledging on behalf of her fellow scholars to honor the opportunity given and pay it forward through future success.

“Gagawin po naming inspirasyon ang biyayang ito upang lalo pang magsumikap sa aming pag-aaral. Hinding-hindi po namin sasayangin ang tiwala at suportang ibinigay nyo sa amin at naniniwala po kami na darating ang araw na maibabalik namin ang kabutihang ipinagkaloob ng Palawan Group of Companies sa pamamagitan ng aming tagumpay.”  (We will take this blessing as an inspiration to work even harder in our studies. We will never waste the trust and support you have given us, and we believe that one day, we will be able to give back the kindness that the Palawan Group of Companies has shown us through our success.) ~Lovie Ubay, BA Communication student at Palawan State University

The PGC-SP underscores the Palawan Group's philosophy that empowering Filipino youth through education is the path to nation-building – one scholar, one family, and one community at a time.  It has produced around 800 alumni to date, with many of them working as licensed instructors, certified public accountants, or entrepreneurs.  Many more have joined the organization in various capacities, contributing to its aim of delivering dependable financial services to Filipinos from the biggest metropolis to the most rural barrios.

ABOUT PALAWAN GROUP OF COMPANIES: 

The Palawan Group of Companies has been a trusted partner of Filipinos for four decades. Its products and services include Palawan Pawnshop, Palawan Pawnshop Jewelry, Palawan Express Pera Padala (Domestic and International), Palawan ProtekTODO, Palawan Gold, Palawan for Business, Palawan Credit, and its and e-waLlet arm, PalawanPay, which is now trusted by 22 million Filipinos. 

Today, the Palawan Group is one of the country’s fastest-growing financial institutions and the market leader in pawning and remittance, with over 70,000 branches, Pera Padala outlets, and PalawanPay Money Shops nationwide. It is trusted by millions of Sukis for services that are mura, mabilis, at walang kuskos balungos (affordable, reliable, and hassle-free).

Staying true to its bricktech approach, the company introduced PalawanPay to give Sukis the flexibility to transact anytime, anywhere — pwede sa branch, pwede sa app. Beyond remittances, PalawanPay also provides convenient access to bill payments, mobile load top-ups, pawn renewals, QR Ph scan-to-pay transactions, and gold and jewelry purchases.

The Palawan Group of Companies operates under the supervision of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

For more information, go to Palawan Pawnshop and PalawanPay Websites.