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Reliable, safe, and secured cash loan recommendations are now within your grasp, thanks to JuanHand’s partnership with Tiwala sa Padala Co., Inc. (TSPCI), known as “TAMBUNTINGS.” Through a referral program, the alliance aims to connect with the vast majority of everyJuans. JuanHand’s objective of protecting and securing client information is complemented by Tambunting’s goal to establish strong bonds of confidence and trust with customers and other business partners.

JuanHand and Tambunting harmoniously signed the agreement at 22 Prime Discovery Suites, Ortigas, Pasig City, last September 27, 2022, in the presence of Ramon C. Tambunting, Director/Corporate Secretary of Tambunting, Nora S. Daileg, Business Development Officer/Compliance Officer, Frederick A. Arcilla, Head of IT Administrative, and Francisco Mauricio, Chief Executive Officer, and Joanna Clarrise, Head of Strategic Partnerships, respectively.

This partnership seeks to offer additional helping hands to everyJuan even in the comfort of your home. Tambunting will soon offer more repayment and disbursement portals, which will increase the exposure of JuanHand. 

Both organizations are delighted and eager to give everyJuan top-notch services.

To know more information, you can visit their official website and you can download JuanHand on both Google Play Store and App Store. 

Tambunting’s Website: https://www.tambunting.ph/

JuanHand’s Website: https://www.juanhand.com/ 

Due to their rarity, exclusivity, and beauty, precious stones like diamonds and jewelry have been linked to status and wealth for more than centuries. Others, however, saw these priceless artifacts as more than just fashion accessories or statement pieces. Some people view gold jewelry as a type of “wearable investment” that never loses value but instead appreciates over time, protecting even your financial future.

The Cebuana Lhuillier, Just Jewels, and Cebuana Lhuillier Jewelry Premium hosts its anticipated annual Black Friday Gold Rush Sale from November 11 to 17, start investing today with reasonably priced and genuine jewelry pieces. Get 10% off everything and up to 50% off a few things at the more than 3,000 Cebuana Lhuillier locations across the country. You may also get up to 10% off of selected jewelry pieces by visiting the branches of Cebuana Lhuillier Jewelry Premium and Just Jewels.

Shop online and avail up to 10% discount by simply visiting Lhuillier Jewelry Premium website at wwww.cebuanalhuillierjewelrypremium.com. You can also checkPremium via Shopee, Lazada, and Zalora with 10% discount

“Jewelry are among the best investments anybody could have. It’s a smart purchase since it’s a physical and tangible asset that is readily available, especially during emergencies. Apart from that, gold jewelry can also withstand inflation and a superior performer in times of economic instability,” Cebuana Lhuillier president and CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier said.

“We want to encourage everyone to take this opportunity to start investing now and buying gold is one of the many ways they can build a better future. Here in Cebuana Lhuillier, we want our kababayans to have access to affordable and authentic pieces of jewelry. They’re more than just a woman’s best friend, they’re everyone’s best investment,” Lhuillier added.

Profit from the nationwide discount and spend your holiday bonuses wisely by safeguarding your future and gathering high-quality items.

Visit the Facebook pa ges for Cebuana Lhuillier, Just Jewels, or Cebuana Lhuillier Jewelry Premium to learn more about the most recent promotions and to get the finest bargains for the Black Friday Sale.

3D Whale Shark, SM Megamall and Mega Space Odyssey, SM Megamall

Holidays are not merely joyfully observed at SM Supermalls; they are also enjoyable, immersive, and experiential. With the first-ever 3D Whale Shark LED billboard at SM Megamall, the Aurora Trail at SM City North Edsa, the Light Show and Holiday Fireworks at SM Mall of Asia, the Golden Gate at SM Aura Premier, and the Mega Space Odyssey, we’re taking you on an adventure this year.

AURORAH TRAIL IN NORTH EDSA

Aurora Walk, SM North EDSA

This Christmas, the Northern Hemisphere is home to the dazzling lights of the Aurora Borealis. At the Aurora path, which ascends the enormous holiday tree with a spectacular display of lights, woodland, rein-bears, and the holiday polar express, you can stroll while indulging in a family-friendly immersive experience.

MEGA SPACE ODYSSEY & 3D WHALE SHARK

Travel to majestic galaxies in outer space and take photos and videos with your space explorer friends. Experience the first-ever immersive 3D LED tunnel in Manila on October 21 to December 25 at the ground level Mega Fashion Hall (at the back of the Giant Christmas Tree).

SM Supermalls introduces the new 3D technology along EDSA by screening a hyper-realistic 3D Whale Shark at SM Megamall’s LED billboard. Bringing you the first in the Philippines, High-Definition Immersive content at the heart of the bustling metropolis. Netizens are awestruck of a larger-than-life Whale Shark peeking out of a digital billboard spanning over 2,000 square foot. The Mega Whale Shark was first teased on April 27 but customers, tourists and motorists can catch the short preview every 15 minutes starting April 28 at peak hours from 12nn to 10pm daily. Watch out for the new 3D content this Christmas. The Philippines has the 2nd largest population of whale shark in the world at over 1,950.

MOA SPARKLE OF LIGHT SHOW AND HOLIDAY FIREWORKS

Sparkle of Light Show, Mall of Asia

Feel the Christmas spirit as you watch the brightest and merriest indoor Christmas tree music and lights show. Be in awe as you watch over one hundred thousand lights set to music. Catch the show DAILY, every hour from 10am to 10pm until end of December at the Central Atrium.

Holiday Fireworks, Mall of Asia

Enjoy the most awaited and better than ever fireworks display at the MOA Complex every Friday and Saturday from November to December 2022. Make sure to experience this magical moment with your families and loved ones.

AURA’s GOLDEN GATEWAY and NIGHTS OF DAZZLING LIGHTS

An immersive experience in the form of a golden jewel is hidden under the enormous Christmas tree. Technology and art come together in this enclosure, created in collaboration with the popular smartphone brand TECNO Mobile, to transport anybody who enters into scenes of a lavish holiday castle and imaginative golden realms. Presenting PHP 1,000 in individual or combined receipts is all that is need to join this glitzy new world.

Golden Gateway, SM Aura Premier

The mall includes other technological experiences besides the theater. At Level 5 of SM Aura Premier’s Skypark, there is a choreographed light and sound show that is equally magnificent. Visitors to the Skypark enter a room with tall light-string sculptures in the shape of trees. A mind-blowing musical performance will enthrall and thrill them as they pass through a jungle of lights. Every Sunday night throughout December, including December 25th itself, the choreographed audio and visual performance is available for viewing at 7 pm.

Every Filipino’s Christmas will be made happier and brighter by SM Supermalls, which brings back the thrill in every visit, joy in every sight, and a magical connection in every experience.

Ode to the stars: SM Megamall kicks off an extraterrestrial celebration                                                       

On October 20, SM officially welcomed in the holiday season with an extraordinary event at Mega & Bright: Christmas in Space 2022 at the SM Megamall. The lighting of the mall’s massive Christmas tree decorated with stars and lights marked the beginning of SM’s nationwide Happy Christmas promotion. Additionally, from October 20 until December, SM customers can view SM Megamall’s Mega Space Odyssey to get a glimpse of the cosmos. People can travel to space and view it immersively thanks to the 3D LED tunnel.

If you weren’t able to attend the SM Megamall Christmas event, there are still other ways to enjoy the season. For you and your loved ones, SM Supermalls has planned thrilling and festive activities! See the information below:

More Christmas Tree lighting activities in your favorite SM mall!

Apart from SM Megamall, other premier SM malls will light up their massive 50-foot Christmas trees to share hope, joy, and love with every SM shopper. Check out the dates below so you can drop by your favorite SM mall and watch the lighting of its dazzling trees full of lights, stars, and colorful ornaments.

Santa-approved Christmas Playpark

Witness as your favorite SM mall opens a new world of Christmas with towering centerpieces, functional spaces, and sprawling activities at the Christmas Playpark. Explore the Christmas markets and play areas, and watch out for Santa appearances, character meet and greets, and other surprises! Plus, you also get to have a multisensory experience at the playpark’s light and sound shows, festive eats and holiday treats, and a whole lot more scents and feels that will embrace you in holiday warmth and ambiance.

Sparkling lights to brighten up your holidays

Christmas won’t be festive without lights. Be in awe as you pass by hallways decked with twinkling lights, illuminated tunnels, beaming driveways, and lit parking spaces as they glow at their best.

Dining out al fresco style at the Super Spots decked with lights

SM Supermalls has also created outdoor attractions for that picture-perfect, memorable shopping, dining, and leisure activities for the whole family. At The Podium, shoppers are in for Joie De Vivre with its Holiday Night Cap on October 21-23 and 28-30 at the ADB Al Fresco, and the Food Lab on October 24-30 at the Atrium East Level 2 so everyone can discover new food specials this Christmas. You can also enjoy special treats, promos, and exclusive deals from your favorite restaurants and food merchants at the SM mall near you!

Turn Christmas AReality at SM

Don’t miss out on a phygital Christmas experience as SM incorporates the festive season with Augmented Reality. In SM Megamall, four AR filters have been made available, including Santa Claus, Reindeer, Snowman, and Sparkle. You just need to scan the QR code at the SM mall near you and see the Christmas centerpiece and magical spots come alive!

Check out the Happiness Stations

SM installed various happiness stations where you can create lasting memories with family and friends. Spot the giant bears with lights at Bears of Joy corner, the happiness photo wall, the Christmas tree decors with your family photos, or the huge TV screen where you can watch your recently filmed Tiktok or IG video at your favorite mall.

Make your furbabies feel the happiness and love

Christmas is for the whole family including furbabies! Make them happy and feel loved by joining the Holiday Paw Play Dates and Costume PAWty. You can also flex them at the Christmas photo challenge and win amazing prizes, or shop for them at the Christmas markets. Also, SM Supermalls will be partnering again with organizations for a pet adoption drive so you can help the little ones find a home in time for the holiday.

Unlock a bigger, better, and brighter virtual Christmas Village

SM will reopen its virtual Christmas Village to bring an exciting, engaging, and rewarding holiday experience to Filipinos. Check out https://gosm.link/ChristmasVillage2022 as it goes live from October 28 to January 5 for an awesome augmented reality shopping, dining, and leisure experience. Create your own avatar, e-meet fellow shoppers and SM ambassadors, and enjoy bonding time with your family and friends while playing fun games at the immersive virtual Christmas zones made for you.

Create circles of happiness by buying products for cause-oriented programs 

Since it’s the season of giving, you can support cause-oriented advocacies of individuals and organizations by purchasing products that provide opportunities and livelihood to marginalized sectors. For this year’s 100 Days campaign, SM partnered with bag designer Zarah Juan, Spark PH, the Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP), the Association of Foot and Mouth Artists of the Philippines, and the Quezon City LGU for its Vote to Tote initiative.

“This Christmas, we are sending a message of happiness to every Filipino. With every activity we have for them, we hope to inspire everyone to spread sparks of happiness in their homes and communities as we celebrate this year’s holiday festivities,” said Steven T. Tan, president of SM Supermalls.

As SM Supermalls generate more enchanted moments and possibilities to make a difference in other people’s lives throughout this holiday season, a new light of experiences will bring happiness and goodwill to every Filipino. To keep up with the many holiday festivities, visit www.smsupermalls.com and follow @smsupermalls on all social media platforms.

(from left): Local Business Line Manager – DKSH Phils, Inc and PAPM Secretary General- Mr. Diosdado Cheng: President Fedchem Manufacturing & Distribution Inc. Vice President: Mayon Industrial Corporation and President: Philippine Association of Paint Manufacturers Inc. : President Charlie Kwa CEO and Founder of Magna Prime Chemical Technologies Inc. and Construction Chemical Specialist – Mr. Derrick Tan: Chief of Finance of Magna Prime Chemical Technologies Inc. – Ms. Sabrina Tan

Filipinos recall Sinclair for its iconic 80s and 90s campaign, which encouraged more individuals to perform their own house improvements. The motto “Sinclair it!” from the company became synonymous with the word “do-it-yourself” or “DIY”. which throughout the years has made the brand a household name. Sinclair has stayed true to its objective of offering top-notch paint products to countless families and businesses around the world over the past few years.

Sinclair is making its return to the local market with a wider and more sophisticated selection of products that offer beauty, durability, affordability, and eco-friendly solutions suitable for every Pinoy home as a result of technological advancements and as the market for construction development remains competitive.

The New Generation of Sinclair

With the reopening of the local market, Sinclair’s timely return will fire up the local competition with its latest premium products that continue the legacy that it started.

Aside from its Traditional or Classic Paint selection that made Sinclair one of the world’s pioneer and trusted brands, Sinclair highlights its innovation with its modern technology paint system, from oil-based to water-based paint and universal colorants.

“We’re delighted to bring back the brand that provided beauty, protection, and comfort to many Filipinos over the past years. With Sinclair’s new line of products – from oil-based to water-based – customers can assure continued premium quality products that will last for a long time while keeping the environment safe and sound,” Mr. Derick Tan, Founder, and CEO of Magna Prime Chemical Technologies, Inc., the company that manufactures Sinclair in the Philippines.

Sinclair’s new generation of paint products highlights its waterproofing innovation that made the paint system more economical, easier to apply, and durable. Inspired by the beauty and long-lasting capability of nature, these new generation paints are made suitable for the tropical weather system in the Philippines on top of the climate change we’re experiencing:

Natica Waterproofing Paint – Inspired by the abundant marine shells in the Philippines, this waterproofing paint possesses marine shells’ thick and smooth features that represent durability and protection. Made of modified pure acrylic paint, this latest innovation of Sinclair is used as a water-proofer, primer, sealer, and top coat making it more cost-efficient than the traditional method of waterproofing and painting exterior walls.

Armadillo Polyurethane Paint – inspired by the New World placental mammal, this Armadillo Polyurethane Paint is the first water-based PU Paint in the Philippines takes pride in being a tough and flexible paint just like an armadillo skin. Recommended to use for high-rise buildings to avoid frequent repainting or costly paint over because of its durability.

Tamago Cleanable Interior Paint – Sinclair’s take on the sheen of an egg – or Tamago (卵/玉子) in the Japanese language – is made to provide a sleeker yet manageable look for home and establishment’s interiors. Made to provide a clean and cleanable look, its simple yet calming effect is achieved with its balance of flat and glossy while protecting your walls or hiding wall imperfections.

Taro Silicone Paint – Is the first silicone paint in the country. With the wet season taking over almost half of the year in the Philippines, rainwater has become one of the main reasons why paint fails to protect many homes and establishments. With Sinclair’s Taro Silicone Paint, families and establishments can have peace of mind any season due to its impregnating capabilities. Impregnation happens when the paint penetrates through the pores of the substrate thus enhancing its adhesion. It also has high-performance formula creating high-vapor permeability that allows water vapor to escape from the surface, avoiding the build-up of algae and fungus that cause paint to peel off. This paint is suitable for structures located in highlands, beside seashores, and areas where wall moisture is present.

More Options to Choose From

Aside from the New Generation paints, Sinclair also levels up its Classic Paint selection which ranges from oil-based to water-based paints that provide equal beauty and protection to various surfaces.

Ligno – this waster-based wood primer is ideal for priming, sealing, and filling wooden substrates that help prevent tannins and stains. An eco-friendly product, this paint has low odor, low volatile organic compounds, and is non-toxic.

Rhino – for those metal surfaces, this Sinclair water-based metal primer and top coat provide a two-in-one purpose that saves time and money. This paint has excellent corrosion resistance for indoor and outdoor applications, ideal for new or weathered galvanized metal, steel, and aluminum roofing surfaces, properly prepared or treated ferrous metal, garages and fences, machines and industrial equipment, pipelines, and tanks.

Cascara – for multi-surface paint, the Sinclair Cascara is an eco-friendly, high-gloss, low-odor, water-based paint ideal as a topcoat for wood, metal, and concrete on interior and exterior areas.

Sinclair is also sparking more colors to its Filipino customer through its colorants products that are made to provide good color retention without losing the glossiness of the base paint. Along with its New Generation paints, Sinclair is also launching Chameleon Colorant, which is dubbed as the universal colorant that gives accurate blend and color preference. Chameleon Colorants are specially formulated using special types of chemicals and pigments to ensure that they can blend homogenously either with water-based, solvent-based or epoxy-based type of paints.

Mr. Derrick Tan

“With more Filipinos enjoying DIY home projects, Sinclair paint products that are highly recommended by professionals are made to spark creativity and freedom, while providing protection, peace of mind, and value to Pinoy’s hard work and money,” Mr. Tan concluded.

During PHILCONSTUCT 2022, Sinclair Paint officially returned to the Philippine market. Visit https://www.magnaprime.com.ph/product-category/sinclair for more information on the items made by Sinclair.

There has been a significant shift in the previous several years in the shopping habits of customers. Filipino shoppers are now conducting the majority of their shopping online, trying on garments virtually, adding items to virtual shopping carts, and checking out their purchases with swipes and clicks as opposed to pushing trolleys through grocery aisles and trying on clothes in actual boutiques.

Furthermore, this tendency is here to stay as more and more customers realize the convenience of being able to buy anywhere and get simple access to technology and digital tools. Home Credit Philippines, the lifestyle partner of every Filipino, is collaborating with Lazada Philippines to give Filipinos a more enjoyable and convenient shopping experience in order to stay up with this trend and the rising customer expectations.

Starting on October 19, customers of Home Credit’s Qwarta can add Qwarta credits to their Lazada wallets to make online shopping and checkout even simpler.

Credit in an app!

Qwarta is Home Credit’s virtual limit provided to its existing customers with good track record and payment history. It is an additional Php 10,000 spending limit within the Home Credit app to increase Home Credit customers’ purchasing power.

Qwarta can be used to pay bills and utilities without additional cost, shop or buy loads with discounts, purchase via QR Code, and earn rewards!

Check out now, pay later!

Been eyeing to check out something off your cart but your wallet just can’t grant that yet? Home Credit and Lazada’s partnership now allows Qwarta users to check out and use their Qwarta credits and pay the entire amount in monthly installments.

Tempted yet? Here’s more: Qwarta users are also saving on processing fees and hidden charges, plus tons of exclusive promos and discounts to avail! Most importantly, Qwarta users are assured of safe and secured processing and shopping experience with both brands adhering to stringent security measures.

Check out with Qwarta in few, easy steps

It’s just as easy as one, two, three: Qwarta users only need to grab their phones and open their My Home Credit App. Then select “Top up” from the app dashboard, choose a gift card amount, review your payment details and confirm by entering your PIN. Lastly, copy the Lazada Gift Card code and redeem it in the Lazada App — just that quick!

For Lazada users, you can also easily top up your wallet by opening the Lazada app, and accessing your Lazada wallet. Select ‘Loans’ and choose Home Credit as your top-up option and voila! You’re all set to check out those Lazada trendy and affordable finds, and get them quickly through the platform’s fast and free shipping.

And what’s good about this is that when topping up an amount on Lazada or redeeming the Lazada Gift Card code through the Home Credit app, the funds will be credited real-time!

So what are you still waiting for? Download the My Home Credit App and top off your Lazada Wallet with Qwarta credits to complete your purchase right away!

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) have properly licensed and overseen the financing firm Home Credit Philippines. Visit the Home Credit Philippines website at www.homecredit.ph to find out more about the most recent news. You may also follow the company’s official profiles on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Customers are urged to download the Home Credit App from Google Play in order to learn more about the newest promotions and discover what has recently appeared in the market.

E-com Centers at the Mall of Asia Complex

During the two years that the COVID-19 epidemic had an influence on the world, many individuals became more conscious of the necessity of sustainability in daily life. Through actions like going paperless, using less plastic, and planting more trees, environmental consciousness has gained ground. Participating in this movement for real estate developers entails making the switch to green construction and development.

This is the case with SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), a subsidiary of SM Investments Corporation (SMIC) that is dedicated to developing cutting-edge and sustainable lifestyle communities. In accordance with comprehensive sustainability goals spanning from energy to ecology, SM Prime is future-proofing its developments to be more sensitive and adaptable to community requirements and the effects of climate change.

Over the years, SM Prime has continued to elevate its approach to building and development of community spaces.  All these green initiatives have been recognized by reputable and well-known organizations such as the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) which awarded Conrad Hotel Manila and SM Aura Premier the Gold certification for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) in 2016 and 2017, respectively.

“When we build, we build with the community in mind. This is why it is important to integrate sustainability in our developments and operations. We remain committed as an environmentally-conscious and responsible integrated property developer ready to serve the ever-changing needs and aspirations of our communities and stakeholders,” said SM Prime President Jeffrey Lim.

Building green office spaces

SM’s Commercial Property Group is renowned for balancing green design features with operational and practical considerations, enabling more companies and locators to enjoy environmentally sound commercial developments.

The CPG’s flagship properties are its five E-com Centers – all future-forward buildings catering mainly to technological, business process outsourcing, and Fortune 500 companies. All five E-com Centers are located in the MOA Complex. Each building has a proportionate amount of green open spaces and communal areas where workers can socialize and decompress from work.

CPG further promotes sustainable practices with its LEED gold-certified office buildings, solidifying its foothold and commitment to building green offices and commercial developments.  These certifications are a testament to SM Prime’s dedication to reducing its contribution to global climate change—all while enhancing the quality of life within its communities.

The ThreeE-com Center boasts architectural wonders and green features that eventually earned its LEED Gold certification. These include water recycling for landscape and non-potable use. The building is fitted with glass windows that minimizes heat from entering the building, allowing tenants to use less air conditioning. This 15-storey, semi-circular twin-tower office building features function and aesthetic complemented with state-of-the-art facilities.  While it was the first office building in the Mall of Asia Complex to receive such an honor, the new FourE-com Center also recently achieved the same certification—designed with its tenants’ needs in mind, improving work-life balance and office culture accordingly.

Both designed by globally renowned firm, Arquitectonica, the Three and Four E-coms are unique amongst business centers. “We designed the E-coms to functionally meet the BPO industry’s need for large, continuous floorplates, but also sculpted them in interesting ways so as to allow views and airflows between the buildings, while also, of course, giving them interesting architectural identities. At the same time, their landscaped podium decks create attractive communal green spaces for the tenants; they are envisaged to be interconnected via landscaped skybridges in the future. The combination of all these factors, architectural design and green spaces, have made the E-coms highly attractive to multinational companies and brands,” said David Zaballero, Arquitectonica Director.

SM Mega Tower

Meanwhile, SM Prime’s tallest skyscraper located along EDSA will also join the company’s growing roster of LEED-certified green buildings. Called Mega Tower, the 50-story office building is future-ready as it provides spaces that respect both its tenants and nature itself.

Strategically located in the busy Ortigas Centre, the 50-storey LEED registered skyscraper is flexibly designed to meet the requirements of both corporate and BPO tenants. Though its design is highly sculptural, each floorplate remains efficiently planned – combining functionality and iconic identity.

“Incorporating sustainability in property development means having the whole life cycle of a building in mind. We invest a tenth of our capital expenditure to ensure that sustainability is integrated into our properties as we carefully plan our developments for our communities, the environment, and future generations ,” SM Prime’s Mr. Lim said.

The CPG’s multi-segment or mixed-use approach enhances the socio-economic potential of its buildings and developments in close cooperation with the SM Group’s other business divisions. As a result, our apartments, malls, parks, and public areas are all connected to SM’s business enterprises. Notably, they are all conveniently located near transportation hubs to ensure the mobility of commuters and pedestrians. In addition to each property’s green and safety features, this interconnection helps the corporation lessen its carbon footprint, draw in more renters and locators, and boost employee productivity.

A spectacular Christmas event at SM North Edsa is part of the mall’s ongoing effort to spread happiness.

Every Filipino’s Christmas will be made happier and brighter by SM Supermalls, which brings back the thrill in every visit, joy in every sight, and a magical connection in every experience.

Your enchanted northern vacation has arrived. At the Magical Northern Holidays at the SM North Edsa on October 21, SM will continue the holiday season with a magnificent display of lights and a joyous celebration.

A 60-foot-tall Christmas tree, a multi-sensory show of Aurora trails, and cute reindeer welcome you at the festive Aurora playpark. It will be a happy celebration till January 8, 2023.

There are still other ways to enjoy the joys of the holidays if you weren’t able to attend the Christmas event at SM North Edsa. For you and your loved ones, SM Supermalls has planned thrilling and festive activities! See the information below:

More Christmas Tree lighting activities in your favorite SM mall!

Apart from SM North Edsa, other premier SM malls will light up their massive 60-foot Christmas trees to share hope, joy, and love with every SM shopper. Check out the dates below so you can drop by your favorite SM mall and watch the lighting of its dazzling trees full of lights, stars, and colorful ornaments:

• SM Mall of Asia, SM Aura Premier, The Podium – October 22
• SM Southmall and SM Cagayan de Oro Downtown Premier – October 23
• S Maison – October 25

Santa-approved Christmas Playpark

Witness as your favorite SM mall opens a new world of Christmas with towering centerpieces, functional spaces, and sprawling activities at the Christmas Playpark. Explore the Christmas markets and play areas, and watch out for Santa appearances, character meet and greets, and other surprises! Plus, you also get to have a multisensory experience at the playpark’s light and sound shows, festive eats and holiday treats, and a whole lot more scents and feels that will embrace you in holiday warmth and ambiance.

Sparkling lights to brighten up your holidays

Christmas won’t be festive without lights. Be in awe as you pass by hallways decked with twinkling lights, illuminated tunnels, beaming driveways, and lit parking spaces as they glow at their best.

Dining out al fresco style at the Super Spots decked with lights

SM Supermalls has also created outdoor attractions for that picture-perfect, memorable shopping, dining, and leisure activities for the whole family. At The Podium, shoppers are in for Joie De Vivre with its Holiday Night Cap on October 21-23 and 28-30 at the ADB Al Fresco, and the Food Lab on October 24-30 at the Atrium East Level 2 so everyone can discover new food specials this Christmas. You can also enjoy special treats, promos, and exclusive deals from your favorite restaurants and food merchants at the SM mall near you!

Turn Christmas AReality at SM

Don’t miss out on a phygital Christmas experience as SM incorporates the festive season with Augmented Reality. In SM Megamall, four AR filters have been made available, including Santa Claus, Reindeer, Snowman, and Sparkle. You just need to scan the QR code at the SM mall near you and see the Christmas centerpiece and magical spots come alive!

Check out the Happiness Stations

SM installed various happiness stations where you can create lasting memories with family and friends. Spot the giant bears with lights at Bears of Joy corner, the happiness photo wall, the Christmas tree decors with your family photos, or the huge TV screen where you can watch your recently filmed Tiktok or IG video at your favorite mall.

Make your furbabies feel the happiness and love

Christmas is for the whole family including furbabies! Make them happy and feel loved by joining the Holiday Paw Play Dates and Costume PAWty. You can also flex them at the Christmas photo challenge and win amazing prizes, or shop for them at the Christmas markets. Also, SM Supermalls will be partnering again with organizations for a pet adoption drive so you can help the little ones find a home in time for the holiday.

Unlock a bigger, better, and brighter virtual Christmas Village

SM will reopen its virtual Christmas Village to bring an exciting, engaging, and rewarding holiday experience to Filipinos. Check out https://gosm.link/ChristmasVillage2022 as it goes live from October 28 to January 5 for an awesome augmented reality shopping, dining, and leisure experience. Create your own avatar, e-meet fellow shoppers and SM ambassadors, and enjoy bonding time with your family and friends while playing fun games at the immersive virtual Christmas zones made for you.

Quezon City Vice Mayor, Gian Carlo G. Sotto and President of SM Supermalls, Steven T. Tan.

Create circles of happiness by buying products for cause-oriented programs

Since it’s the season of giving, you can support cause-oriented advocacies of individuals and organizations by purchasing products that provide opportunities and livelihood to marginalized sectors. For this year’s 100 Days campaign, SM partnered with bag designer Zarah Juan, Spark PH, the Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP), the Association of Foot and Mouth Artists of the Philippines, and the Quezon City LGU for its Vote to Tote initiative.

“This Christmas, we are sending a message of happiness to every Filipino. With every activity we have for them, we hope to inspire everyone to spread sparks of happiness in their homes and communities as we celebrate this year’s holiday festivities,” said Steven T. Tan, president of SM Supermalls.

As SM Supermalls generate more enchanted moments and possibilities to make a difference in other people’s lives throughout this holiday season, a new light of experiences will bring happiness and goodwill to every Filipino. To keep up with the many holiday festivities, visit www.smsupermalls.com and follow @smsupermalls on all social media platforms

As they continue to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic’s effects, Quezon City will be promoted as an excellent destination for investors and enterprises during the eagerly awaited “Quezon City Investors Summit: Future Ready.”

“The summit will put the spotlight on Quezon City as top business destination for local and international investors. We hope to attract many investors who can help further stimulate the economy and provide employment for QCitizens,” Mayor Belmonte said.

The event, which is slated for October 7 at the Novotel Manila at Araneta City, will bring together investors, business executives, chambers of commerce, business associations, foreign dignitaries, and representatives of the Quezon City government for discussions on strategic investment opportunities, PPPs, and chances for expansion and growth.

“Quezon City is future ready, ready for investors, ready to build a better and more prosperous city so that our QCitizens will be able to enjoy the resulting benefits,” said Margarita Santos, head of the Business Permits and Licensing Department (BPLD) of Quezon City.

Aside from its strategic location, Quezon City also has the homegrown QC E-Services platform that makes business processes such as permit and license applications easy for investors, according to Santos.

“The LGU has automated and digitized 95 percent of the city’s services through its QC E-Services platform. This means potential investors can apply for business permits online,” said Santos, adding that the “permit will even be delivered to the applicant’s business or home address free of charge.”

As a matter of principle, the Quezon City government constantly consults and coordinates with the business sector, which has enabled both sectors to build a relationship of mutual respect and support. “This continued dialogue with the private sector helps all stakeholders to address various challenges and issues, and to think up ways to create a free, fair and fertile business environment,” Perry Dominguez, head of the Local Economic Investment Promotions Office, points out. The local government is known as an ardent supporter of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), providing them with incentives from tax breaks, tax payment extensions to changing the validity of business permits and licenses to help businesses especially during the pandemic.

Soon, Quezon City will launch its Start-Up QC program to further strengthen and develop the city’s start-up business ecosystem. “This program is calibrated to provide financial gains to innovative, creative and promising business models that can help provide solutions and recommendations to social issues and challenges,” Jay Gatmaitan, Investment Affairs Office head, explained.

The city’s commitment to good governance saw results when the Quezon City government received its second straight unqualified opinion from the Commission on Audit for its annual audit report for the year 2021. An unqualified opinion is the highest audit rating that can be rendered by COA to a government agency.

Recognized for its quality public service, Quezon City has increased its social services budget over the past three years, enabling the local government to provide livelihood opportunities and create more jobs, support education, and provide permanent housing, better healthcare and social safety nets, among others.

The summit’s organizer, Margie Santos, had stated that it intends to increase investor trust in Quezon City, attract investments and public-private partnerships, and establish Quezon City as a top-of-mind preferred investment destination.

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3

IMMAP DigiCon’s co-presenter, Angkas, develops the roadmap for the tech-enabled industries and players in the coming years.

According to the Center for Economics Business Research, the Philippines is poised to be one of five ASEAN countries that will become digital powerhouses in the next fifteen years, despite the global pandemic (CEBR).

As per Angkas CEO George Royeca, the nation is prepared for a significant advancement in the innovation and startup sectors. The key focus of this year’s IMMAP DigiCon Valley 2022, which will be co-presented by Angkas, the top motorbike taxi and delivery platform, will be these industries and their consistent growth in recent years.

Text Box: Angkas CEO George Royeca“While the pandemic has been the worst global crisis of the millennium undeniably opened new avenues for rapid growth in the country, particularly in the tech sector. Overnight, e-commerce, online payments, e-wallets, telemedicine, online gig employment, digital banks as well as delivery and logistics services experienced exponential growth which then had to be supported by faster internet speeds,” points out Royeca.

“The pandemic and the restricted mobility it necessitated primed the market in terms of tech literacy and a willingness to adopt tech-based solutions. There are products and services the market is ready for now that would not have been viable pre-pandemic, and that might have otherwise taken another 5-10 years for the country to be ready for,” adds Royeca. “We have had, and continue to have an ideal and unprecedented climate for both developing and funding tech startups. The kind of businesses that offer innovative products and services we couldn’t have even imagined pre-pandemic,” he concludes.

The road less trafficked

Angkas was itself an innovation, far more unconventional than it seems on the surface. Motorcycle taxis were already in wide use for public transport all over the region at the time of Angkas’ inception in 2015. Despite the crippling traffic in Metro Manila and its staggering economic cost, motorcycle taxis were not a solution being considered by anyone at the time, because motorcycles had an appalling safety record.

The Metro Manila Accident Recording and Analysis System (MMARAS) Traffic Accident report for 2015 indicated that motorcycle accidents comprised 39.6% of all vehicular accidents and 33.6% of all fatal accidents in Metro Manila. In each case they were by far the single largest contributors. Filipino motorcycle riders were regarded as too undisciplined for such a service to be reasonably safe.

Angkas’ innovation was in actually believing that with training, motivation and support, Filipinos could be the backbone of a safe and professionalized app-enabled motorcycle taxi service. “We shoulder the training of all rider applicants, then we carefully select only the top 30%. We also hold regular company events that serve as refreshers, and venues for more training in soft skills, and even things like anti-sexual harassment education,” explains Royeca. “The result is that after literally millions of rides booked, our safety record is 99.997%,” he concludes.

Sense of purpose, grit resilience

“I think the number one thing that potential startups should begin with is seeing the bigger picture: are you solving a real problem?” asks Royeca. “Any business venture is always going have a money-making aspect, but in this day and age, it is businesses that have an innate sense of purpose and that offer real solutions to real problems that are embraced by the public,” Royeca points out,

Royeca had specific advice to would-be startups on failure: “Don’t be afraid of failure or adversity, these build grit. As long as you are imbued with a sense of purpose, you will overcome failure and adversity and come out stronger, and with more grit.”

In Angkas short history, they were ordered to cease operations twice, their rider pool was capped, and just when they seemed in the clear, the pandemic hit. Showing true resilience, it was then that Angkas launched a courier and buying assistant service, allowing more people to do errands and business safely from home. Angkas also formed a partnership with the Red Cross to assist with the delivery, and administration of COVID-19 test kits. When it became reasonably safe to do so, Angkas also offered free rides to medical frontliners.

Co-creation Breeds Innovation

Community building begins when everyone contributes for the welfare of everyone, and that is exactly what resonated with Angkas to sign up and be a co-presenter for this year’s IMMAP DigiCon Valley 2022, one of the most anticipated digital conferences in the industry which gathers professionals from marketing, advertising, and digital sectors to hear and learn from world-renowned and celebrated local keynote speakers.

Internet and Mobile Marketing Association of the Philippines (IMMAP) is an organization that works toward educating and providing the necessary digital tools for advertising and integrated marketing professionals to make better communication decisions. One such effort is the yearly DigiCon.

Royeca explains, “When you have a business that serves many, it is impossible to innovate without co-creation. Angkas would not have been possible without the coming together of technology innovations, government regulators, customers, and of course our rider partners, to create a “winnovation”, an innovation in which everyone has a stake, and in which everybody wins.”

From L to R: Brian Go (Angkas Chief Marketing Officer), Denise Haak (IMMAP DigiCon Co-Chair), Janelle Barretto (IMMAP DigiCon Ways & Means Head), and Trish Elamparo-Esteban (IMMAP DigiCon Co-Chair).

After two years of purely virtual connections, this year’s IMMAP DigiCon Valley 2022 will finally bring back face-to-face networking through the DigiCon After-Hours, which will be held during the evenings across the city, promising to provide cocktails and entertainment, and allow delegates to physically reconnect with other industry players.

“I think what Angkas is excited about is this live interaction; a lot of the best collaborations and partnerships happen because of these more spontaneous, in-person things, and human interaction is what makes all the creativity and innovation grow more,” muses Royeca.

As co-presentor for this year’s IMMAP DigiCon Valley 2022, Angkas hopes that this can be a great model to induce new SMEs in the tech and startup sector, while also introducing a community mindset that can hopefully solve daily problems for Filipinos.

DigiCon Valley 2022 is happening on October 10-14 from 9AM to 1PM PST using ViVYD platform, with all new tracks that tackle the different stages of innovation: Launchpad, Hypergrowth, Breakthrough, and Enterprise.

This year’s prestigious keynote speakers include one of the most influential women in the world and Huffington Post founder, Arianna Huffington; Rappler Founder and the first Filipino Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Maria Ressa; internationally acclaimed marketing expert and academic, Mark Ritson; co-founder of Character ventures and Design Sprint inventor, Jake Knapp; and Global CMO of Dole Sunshine Company, Rupen Desai.

Buy tickets now and learn more about IMMAP DigiCon Valley 2022 at www.digicon.com.ph and follow their social pages on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

IMMAP DigiCon Valley 2022 is co-presented by Angkas, and would like to thank Platinum Sponsors: Manulife Philippines, Share Treats, and TikTok; Gold Sponsors: Investing in Women, an initiative of the Australian Government, Grab Ads, Kroma Entertainment, McDonald’s Philippines and Meta Philippines; and Silver Sponsors: Digital Turbine, Hepmil Philippines, and Metrobank.

A special thank you to Kickstart Ventures, Endeavor, and Creators and Influencers of the Philippines (CICP), the event sponsors of IMMAP. Join IMMAP right away!

Be an IMMAP Member today! Visit www.immap.com.ph for more information on IMMAP, or get in touch with us at: [email protected] (0917) 6310206 / (0918) 577 2357 for SMS/Viber.