Author: Press Release

Complete Your Christmas Gift Shopping in One Go with Human Nature’s love-filled Gifts!

Homes lit up with Christmas lights, streets filled with children’s voices singing Christmas carols, and establishments adorned with Christmas decorations to get into the holiday spirit: Christmas is totally right around the corner!

Along with the holiday comes the spirit of giving: one of the best ways to express your love and let it shine brighter than ever. But amid the joy and excitement brought about by the giving season, the hunt for the perfect Christmas gift can sometimes be stressful.

There’s the hustling and bustling holiday schedules, not to mention the holiday traffic. It’s almost as if Christmas is catching up to us real quick and there’s no time to stop and think anymore!

You Better Not Frown, Human Nature’s Gift Bundles are Coming to Town!

If you want to channel your inner St. Nick but you’re short of time and gift ideas, fret not! Human Nature steps forward as your gift-giving ally this holiday, bringing meaningful Christmas gifts that give back to the communities, our country, and our planet.

Whether it’s a unique gift for your officemate, a special pick for your friends, or a present for your pamangkin, there’s surely a gift for everyone on your list. With bundles that include products that genuinely care for your loved ones inside and out, help uplift workers, local farmers and communities, and are truly kind to our planet, our giftables are nothing but a celebration of love in every detail.

Light Up the World with Gifts that Give Love!

These gift bundles are as pocket-friendly as they are meaningful. You can already share the love and give a gift for your nearest and dearest for as low as PhP159.75! All bundles also come with a festive Christmas gift bag, making gifting extra special and less hassle.

On the lookout for a handy gift for your officemate who never fails to lend you a helping hand at work? Look no further than the Happy Helping Hands (PhP159.75), Citrus Duet (PhP177.50), and Zesty Hand Besties (PhP237.50), bundles that are sure to take them on a fragrant, skin-soothing journey!

For the kikay friend who’s also a skincare maven, give them the gift of natural skincare with Peaceful Glow (PhP299.50) and Twin Skindulgence (PhP299.50) which both contain Human Nature’s best-selling miracle worker: Sunflower Beauty Oil!

Snag the Best Tito/Tita award this year and gift your precious little pamangkins the gentle, genuine care that they deserve! Earth’s Little Helpers (PhP259.50) and Tiny Tots Treats (PhP399.50) are perfect for kiddos and infants respectively.

Allow the teens (and teens at heart!) to feel special this season with Christmas Kisses (PhP199.50) and Pure Cheer (PhP299.50)–essential giftables that naturally nurture their bodies as they go through changes!

Got any hard working man in your life that you want to feel cared for and appreciated? Express your love to them through Minty Gentlemen (PhP199.75), St. Nick’s Picks (PhP219.50), and Santa’s Shower Faves (PhP269.50)!

For pampering treats that will truly delight your beloved this time around, then holiday treats like Skin Salvation Trio (PhP399.75), Cool-tide Season (PhP484.50), and Wellness Wonders (PhP500) might just be the ideal giftables to purchase!

Did we mention that you can get a FREE Christmas gift bag when you buy special Human Nature crowd faves? You read that right! You can request for a free bag when you purchase Radiant Grace Night Cream (PhP795), Overnight Elixir (PhP895), or Sunflower Eye Cream (PhP349) among others. You can even create your own Human Nature gift sets by buying in bulk to save more – such as buying 10 Tinted Lip Balms for your friends and get 1 free or buy 5 of their Hyaluronic Acid Day Gel Moisturizer and get 1 free!

Holiday Gift Shopping Made Merrier, Brighter, and Easier

Looking for it? We got it! So run, don’t walk, to a Human Nature store near you and complete your Christmas gift shopping in one go. If you prefer not to deal with the traffic, just head over to www.humanheartnature.com to tick off everyone on your list! You can even choose to send your gifts to multiple recipients in one go – just buy the gifts, assign them to each recipient and indicate their address. We’ll send them out for you! Don’t know their addresses? We’ll take care of it for you – just note down their number and we’ll make sure it gets to them. Talk about taking your Santa Claus gaming to the next level!

Here’s a little not-so-secret secret: you can get 15% off on ALL your Christmas shopping when you sign up as a Human Nature member – in our stores or on our website! Shopping WHILE saving? Yes, please!

You can also browse through our TikTok Shop or Shopee and Lazada stores, or opt for same day-delivery via GrabMart, MetroMart, and PandaMart (selected branches only)!

Let Love Shine Bright this Christmas the Natural Way

This season, let Human Nature be your shopping buddy and go-to one-stop shop for all your gifting needs with ready-made, budget-friendly, love-filled bundles that are sure to care for your loved ones not just Christmas, but all-year round.

As the popular Christmas song goes, Christmas truly is in our hearts. With every Human Nature bundle that you purchase, you give back to our country, help uplift the poor from poverty, and protect the Earth–one giftable at a time. Choose gifts that give back and make this holiday season a celebration of your love that shines bright!

December 23, 2023
Stream 2023’s top-trending shows this festive season with PLDT Home

2023 is down to its last few days, and that means for many of us, it’s time for a well-deserved break. For those who get the rare opportunity to unwind, it’s a moment to indulge ourselves and do what we want to do — and for some, it’s catching up on a lot of good stuff on our screens.

By now, everyone knows that with so much content out there in the world, there’s truly no shortage of stuff to watch. Whether it’s TV shows, movies, concerts, sports, or anything that’s bingeable, there’s something to pass the time with.

If you’re a PLDT Home customer, you get to have even more to choose from than usual, as you’ve got access to some of the most exciting streaming platforms in HBO GO, Lionsgate Play, Viu, and, of course, NBA League Pass for hardcore basketball fans. All you have to do is avail yourself of a special subscription that comes with your PLDT Home Fiber plan, and you’re good to go with unli-entertainment for the break. Here are some of the gems you can enjoy with your fam and friends at home this holiday season:

Barbie

If you haven’t seen one of the most talked-about movies of the year, this is now your chance to see what so many people have loved. To live in Barbie Land is to be a perfect being in a perfect place. Unless you have a full-on existential crisis. Or you’re a Ken. From Oscar®-nominated writer and director Greta Gerwig (Little Women, Lady Bird) comes Barbie, starring Oscar®-nominees Margot Robbie (Bombshell, I, Tonya) and Ryan Gosling (La La Land, Half Nelson) as Barbie and Ken, alongside America Ferrera (End of Watch, How to Train Your Dragon films), Kate McKinnon (Bombshell, Yesterday), Issa Rae (The Photograph, Insecure), Rhea Perlman (I’ll See You in My Dreams, Matilda), and Will Ferrell (the Anchorman films, Talladega Nights). Barbie, now exclusively on HBO GO, is available to PLDT Home customers for as low as P199/month.

Spencer

Princess Diana’s untimely passing will always grip people’s hearts and imaginations as one of the most unfortunate tragedies the world has seen. That fascination ledto Spencer, the biopic starring Kristen Stewart (The Twilight series) as the beloved and iconic Princess of Wales.

While it may be easy to make a highly dramatic film about her car accident, Spencer is a more subtle film that focuses on Diana’s slowly unraveling psyche in 1991, on the brink of her much-publicized divorce from then-Prince Charles. It’s a careful study on what drives a person, especially a woman, to do certain things that other people and a hawkish media would prey upon and twist. Fans of Princess Diana and the British royalty would do well to check the 2021 film digitally released first on Lionsgate Play, available to PLDT Home customers for as low as P79/month.

A Journey to Love

Right now, Korean dramas and some Japanese dramas get a lot of love from Filipinos, but you shouldn’t also sleep on Chinese dramas as well. One such series is A Journey to Love, a period romance and wuxia martial arts fantasy drama that’ll hook sentimental viewers, history buffs, and Eastern martial arts fans alike.

Set in the famed Three Kingdoms era of China, A Journey to Love is the story of female Wu assassin Ren Yu Yi (Liu Shi Shi) who must save the King of Wu with Ning Yuan Zhou (Liu Yu Ning), the leader of Wu’s Six Realms Hall and a party of other warriors. As they go on their adventure, Ren and Ning both grow and fall in love together, making it a journey of self-discovery as well.

Those who want a bit of a different flavor to their drama can catch this on streaming platform Viu, carrying Chinese, Korean, and Japanese shows and movies among other Asian finds. PLDT Home customers can get Viu Premium for P80/month.

NBA Christmas Day games

Christmas Day basketball has been a tradition of the NBA, with this year’s holiday festivities marking the 76^th time it’s been held. On Tuesday, Dec. 26 PHT, the past four NBA champions will see action to give fans a thrilling slate of regular-season games.

Tipping off the holiday festivities, on Dec. 26 at 1 a.m. PHT, the 2021 NBA champion Milwaukee Bucks – led by superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo – face the New York Knicks. Following right after at 3:30 a.m. PHT, the current NBA Champions the Denver Nuggets – led by the NBA Finals MVP Nikola Jokic – go up against the previous champs the Golden State Warriors – captained by megastar Stephen Curry. At 6:00 a.m. PHT, the third match of the five-game slate will see LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers play against their perennial rivals the Boston Celtics – powered by young stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Rounding out the Christmas Day games are the Philadelphia 76ers vs. Miami Heat (9:00 a.m. PHT) and the Dallas Mavericks vs. Phoenix Suns (11:30 a.m. PHT). Of course, if the heated basketball action starts too early for you, NBA League Pass – the league’s premium live game subscription service – lets you catch it on-demand at your own pace. No better way for a basketball fan to enjoy the break than with the game’s brightest stars! PLDT Home customers can subscribe to NBA League Pass and access wall-to-wall NBA content for P425/month. To find out more, visit https://pldthome.com/entertainment.

December 22, 2023
Lionsgate Play Cozy Christmas Movies to Binge for Your Well-Deserved Holiday Night In

There’s nothing quite like curling up in bed with a warm mug of cocoa and a heartwarming Christmas movie to kickstart the holiday season. It’s one of the best feelings in the world. So if you’re up for a relaxing evening of Christmas films that transport viewers to a world of snow-covered streets glowing under twinkling lights, nostalgic school Christmas dances, and charming towns celebrating the holiday cheer, press play on these movies on Lionsgate Play.

Christmas Made to Order (2018)

Workaholic architect Steven (Jonathan Bennett, Mean Girls) finds himself in a dilemma when his family insists on spending Christmas in his near-empty home. In a pinch, he recruits holiday coordinator Gretchen (Alexa PenaVega, Spy Kids) to pull off an interior decorating holiday miracle. Gretchen’s Christmas spirit successfully brings Steven’s family together and works a little too well in bringing the pair closer to each other.

Stream Christmas Made to Order here.

Christmas Wonderland (2018)

Heidi Nelson (Emily Osment, Hannah Montana), a successful art gallery curator in New York, is forced to come home to the small town of Pleasant Valley for the holidays. She crosses paths with her high school sweetheart, Chris Shepherd (Ryan Rottman, The House Bunny), now a teacher at the local school. The pair slowly rekindle their relationship after Chris asks her for help looking for a last-minute location for the school’s Christmas dance. The more time Heidi spends in Pleasant Valley, the more she finds herself inspired to pursue her painting passion again. But time is running out and Heidi must decide if the cutthroat life she built in the city is worth exchanging for the charming one she has in Pleasant Valley.

Stream Christmas Wonderland here.

A Christmas in Royal Fashion (2018)

Kristin Cooper (Cindy Busby, The Big Year) and Prince Patrick’s (Diarmaid Murtagh, Vikings) Christmastime meet-cute starts at a fashion show. Kristin, an assistant at a global PR firm, is tasked to organize the annual Christmas Fashion Show and Auction for one of their biggest clients. Meanwhile, the King of Edgemoor volunteered his son, Prince Patrick, as the Royal family representative. Sparks fly when Kristin and Patrick meet, but he mistakes Kristin for her boss, Melaine. As they spend more time together, Kristin wonders if the dashing prince would fall for her if he knew she works as an assistant and not a boss.

Stream A Christmas in Royal Fashion here.

Curl up in bed and enjoy these cozy Christmas movies streaming exclusively on Lionsgate Play on PLDT Home.

December 22, 2023

Ring in the New Year with Exciting Movies and Series on HBO GO, HBO, Warner TV, Cartoon Network, and Cartoonito

Kick off the new year with HBO Original series True Detective: Night Country andcelebrate the 25^th Anniversary of The Sopranos with us on HBO GO. Ahead of the 75th Primetime Emmy® Awards, revisit nominated series, from Succession, The Last of Us, House of the Dragon and more. The action continues with the premiere of The Super Mario Bros. Movie, Bed Rest andOperation Fortune: Ruse De Guerre on HBO and HBO GO.Gather the family together for something magical on Warner TV with Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium and catch Adventure Time: Distant Lands and more with Movie Madness on Cartoon Network as well as a brand-new show, Interstellar Ella on CARTOONITO.

Drama and Thriller on HBO GO

True Detective: Night Country
Premieres Monday, January 15 on HBO GO

Catch True Detective: Night Country on HBO GO on Monday, January 15 in celebration of True Detective’s 10^th Anniversary on January 12. When the long winter night falls in Ennis, Alaska, the eight men who operate the Tsalal Arctic Research Station vanish without a trace. To solve the case, Detectives Liz Danvers and Evangeline Navarro will have to confront the darkness they carry in themselves and dig into the haunted truths that lie buried under the eternal ice. Stars Jodie Foster and Kali Reis.

Celebrate The Sopranos 25^th Anniversary on Wednesday, January 10 on HBO GO

James Gandolfini stars in this acclaimed series as Tony Soprano, a husband and mob boss whose professional and private strains often land him in the office of his therapist.

Celebrate 25 years of the captivating crime-drama series and revisit all six seasons of The Sopranos, now on HBO GO.

Revisit Emmy-nominated series on HBO GO

In advance of the 75^th Primetime Emmy® Awards, be sure to stream your favourite nominated originals such as Succession Season 4, The Last of Us, The White Lotus Season 2, House of the Dragon, Barry Season 4 and many more on HBO GO.

More on HBO and HBO GO

The Super Mario Bros. Movie
Premieres Saturday, January 6 at 9pm on HBO and HBO GO

A fun adventure based on Nintendo’s globally successful video game franchise about a moustachioed plumber Mario and his lanky brother, Luigi, in their quest to save Princess Peach from villain Bowser. Starring Golden Globe winner Anya-Taylor Joy and comedy masters Chris Pratt and Charlie Day.

Bed Rest
Premieres Saturday, January 13 at 9pm on HBO and HBO GO

After years of struggling to start a family, Julie Rivers is pregnant again and moving into a new home with her husband as they embrace a fresh start. Upon being ordered to mandatory bed rest, Julie begins to slowly unravel as she suffers through the monotony and anxiety of her new constraints. Soon, terrifying ghostly experiences in the home begin to close in on Julie, stirring up her past demons and causing others to question her mental stability. Stars Melissa Barrera and Guy Burnet.

Operation Fortune: Ruse De Guerre
Premieres Saturday, January 20 at 9pm on HBO andHBO GO

Super spy Orson Fortune must track down and stop the sale of a deadly new weapons technology wielded by billionaire arms broker Greg Simmonds. Reluctantly teamed with some of the world’s best operatives, Fortune and his crew recruit Hollywood’s biggest movie star Danny Francesco to help them on their globe-trotting undercover mission to save the world. Stars Jason Statham, Aubrey Plaza, Josh Hartnett, Cary Elwes, Bugzy Malone, and Hugh Grant.

Drama and Comedy on Warner TV

Movies and Series Premiere on Warner TV
●      Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium
Premieres Saturday, January 6 at 9pm
●      Hack My Life Season 3
Premieres Monday, January 8 at 8.10pm
●      Abduction
Premieres Saturday, January 13 at 9pm
●      Next
Premieres Saturday, January 20 at 9pm

LOL Sundays on Warner TV
Every Sunday at 9pm
●      Joe’s Apartment, January 7
●      Little Nicky, January 14
●      Wedding Crashers, January 21
● Hall Pass, January 28

Cartoon Network and CARTOONITO

Interstellar Ella
Every Thursday and Friday, from January 4 onwards, from 8am on CARTOONITO

In the year 3021, on a space station somewhere between Mars and Jupiter in the Milky Way, 8-year-old Ella Ryder sets out with her friends on exciting adventures in space! While Ella’s adventures are spine-tingly fun, they also allow her to discover a little bit more about herself with each unexpected challenge.

Movie Madness on Cartoon Network
Weekends, January 6 to January 28, from 11am on Cartoon Network

On January 6, catch the premiere of JLA Adventures: Trapped in Time where The Justice League stops Lex Luthor from going back in time to eliminate Superman, Wonder Woman and Batman by changing their origin stories. On January 12, join the Teen Titans as they travel to Japan to get to the source of the attack by a new villain, in Teen Titans: Trouble in Tokyo. Then, catch Adventure Time: Distant Lands and find out who’s the hero to call when there’s a deadly space emergency on January 27.

Channel numbers for your reference:

HBO – Cignal: Ch. 53 (SD), Ch. 210 (HD), Sky Cable: Ch. 54 (SD) and Ch. 168 (HD)
CARTOONITO – Cignal: Ch. 76, Sky Cable: Ch. 42
Cartoon Network – Cignal: Ch. 74 (SD), Ch. 220 (HD), Sky Cable: Ch. 43 (SD), Ch. 178 (HD)
Warner TV – Cignal Ch. 235 and Sky Cable Ch. 34 (SD) and Ch. 197 (HD)

Subscribe to HBO GO online at https://www.hbogoasia.ph/ or the mobile app via the App Store or Play Store for only ₱1,190 on the 12-month plan. Or access HBO GO via Cignal, Globe and Skycable. HBO GO is also available on Android TV, Apple TV, LG TV and Samsung Smart TV – and comes with AirPlay and Google Cast functionality.

December 22, 2023

Jonas Brothers’ ‘The Tour’ Set to Visit the Philippines in February 2024

Fresh off the heels of their final North American shows and three-night hometown run, Jonas Brothers have announced that THE TOUR will also journey to the Philippines on February 22, 2024, to perform at the Mall of Asia Arena.

‘The Tour’ is their most ambitious outing to date with 98 shows across 26 countries. Every night is a celebration of five albums and features their best hits throughout the years including a variety of career-spanning deep cuts and fan-favorite hits.

Their monumentally successful North American run, which hit legendary venues including Toronto’s Rogers Centre, Chicago’s Wrigley Field and Los Angeles’ Dodger Stadium, concluded this month at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. In 2024, the tour will continue its trek around the globe starting in The Philippines, Indonesia, and New Zealand in February. They will also perform for the first time ever in Australia, New Zealand, Poland, Austria, Czech Republic, Northern Ireland, Hamburg, Lyon, Munich and Norway.

The Jonas Brothers reaffirmed their status as global icons and left a lasting imprint on the hearts of their Filipino fans. Their upcoming concert in the Philippines is promoted by Ovation Productions with Blast TV as the official media partner. General on sale will be on 6 January 2024, at 12 noon through smtickets.com.

For more details and updates about the concert please check the official website and Facebook Page of Ovation Productions at https://ovationproductionsmanila.com/ and https://www.facebook.com/ovationproductions/.

December 22, 2023
Mas Pinalamig na Paskong Pinoy Handog ni Sangkap Claus and BGYO

Sangkap Claus has come to town bearing a special gift for all: Chowking’s SuperSangkap Halo-Halo, ang #SuperSangkapNgPasko! Made with 13 unique halo-halo ingredients, this super sangkap dessert is the all-you-need palamig para sa mainit na Paskong Pinoy!

Chowking and Sangkap Claus set-up a special Christmas tree at NAIA terminal 3 with special QR codes to redeem a SuperSangkap Halo-Halo at any Chowking branch via chowkingdelivery.com or the Chowking App, perfect for balikbayans who are back home for the holidays. The tree will be up beyond the holidays, so anyone traveling could get their halo-halo fix no matter the season! Sangkap Claus will also be visiting select Chowking nationwide dala ang #SuperSangkapNgPasko, so watch out!

And that’s not all! PPop sensation BGYO also teamed up with Sangkap Claus to release their new Christmas jingle. ACEs all over the country could now bop it out to ‘Halo-Halong Saya’ while feasting on their idol’s favorite SuperSangkap Halo-Halo.

Make your different holiday moments even sweeter and cooler with the Chowking SuperSangkap Halo-Halo, a treat na bagay na bagay sa halo-halong kulay ng mga Pinoy celebrations any time of the year. Available in all Chowking stores nationwide, all-year-round. #SuperSangkapNgPasko

December 22, 2023
Google unveils 2023’s top search trends in the Philippines
Google ends the year once again by releasing the Year In Search 2023, its annual compilation of the top trending keywords and terms that Filipinos search for.

These top 10 lists serve as a record of the many events and issues that people have gotten caught up in over the year. For example, SIM registration topped the News list because of the new law that mandated everyone to register their phone numbers, and because Filipinos wanted to know more about the process. Major international events are also high on Filipinos’ awareness, as the Israel-Hamas war is ranked fifth in the top News trends.

The pop culture lists are also full of names that are bound to trigger specific memories from months past. Among many other keywords, there’s Japanese actor Mackenyu who ranked #2 in Male Personalities because of the reception to his One Piece role, Jenna Ortega (#8 in Female Personalities) who’s enjoying her career highs from Wednesday and Scream 7, and local TV drama Maria Clara at Ibarra that gripped Filipinos during its TV run.

TV shows and movies available on streaming platforms earned more places on this year’s lists, which lines up with the steady growth of online media consumption as projected in this year’s eConomy SEA Report.

Below is the full list of the top search trends in the Philippines:

News
1. SIM registration
2. precinct finder
3. persona non grata
4. Nipah virus
5. War in Israel and Gaza
6. lato-lato
7. Typhoon Egay update
8. Taal Volcano update
9. Turkey earthquake
10. MoCa Farm
Sports
1. Lakers vs Warriors
2. Lakers vs Nuggets
3. FIBA World Cup
4. Miami vs Denver
5. Lakers vs Grizzlies
6. Suns vs Nuggets
7. Celtics vs 76ers
8. Heat vs Knicks
9. Golden State Warriors vs Kings
10. Ginebra vs Bay Area
Shows or Series
1. Duty After School
2. Maria Clara at Ibarra
3. Moving
4. The Glory
5. Twinkling Watermelon
6. King the Land
7. XO, Kitty
8. The Last of Us
9. My Lovely Liar
10. Strong Girl Nam-soon
Songs or Lyrics
1. Say You Won’t Let Go
2. ERE
3. Pasilyo
4. Uhaw
5. Lupang Hinirang English
6. Angels Like You
7. California King Bed
8. Rapstar
9. Raining In Manila
10. Jopay
Games
1. Blade Ball codes
2. Delta Executor
3. Soldier, Poet, or King quiz
4. Cosmic Values
5. Anime Adventures codes
6. Farlight
7. Choox Sega
8. Honkai: Star Rail
9. Minecraft 1.20
10. Project Slayers codes
Male Personalities
1. Ahn Bo-hyun
2. Mackenyu
3. Marco Gumabao
4. Taylor Lautner
5. Travis Kelce
6. Liam Hemsworth
7. David Licauco
8. Kyle Kuzma
9. Juan Karlos
10. Chen Zhe Yuan
Female Personalities
1. Katy Louise Saunders
2. Cristine Reyes
3. Millie Bobby Brown
4. Lee Da-in
5. Issa Pressman
6. Janna Dominguez
7. Bada Lee
8. Jenna Ortega
9. Emily Rudd
10. Isabel Santos
Movies
1. Oppenheimer
2. John Wick: Chapter 4
3. Barbie
4. Insidious: The Red Door
5. The Menu
6. Extraction 2
7. I Love Lizzy
8. Evil Dead Rise
9. Nowhere
10. Kill Boksoon
Farewells
1. Mike Enriquez
2. Joey Paras
3. Matthew Perry
4. Andrei Sison
5. Patrick Guzman
6. Mario Dumaual
7. John Regala
8. Michael Gambon
9. Park Soo Ryun
10. Tina Turner
Korean Series
1. Duty After School
2. Moving
3. The Glory
4. Twinkling Watermelon
5. King the Land
6. My Lovely Liar
7. Strong Girl Nam-soon
8. Alchemy of Souls
9. Island
10. A Time Called You
To see the full Year in Search 2023 list, click here.
December 21, 2023
Nostalgia Meets the Future: Ayala Avenue New Year’s Eve Countdown to 2024

Ayala Land and Make It Makati, in collaboration with the local Government of Makati, are delighted to present “Nostalgia Meets the Future: Ayala Avenue New Year’s Eve Countdown to 2024.” Happening on December 31, 2023, witness the biggest, brightest, and most iconic celebration of NYE in the country, together with the community. This exciting show will unfold right at Ayala Avenue, commencing at 7:00 PM and continuing into the night.

Marking 24 years since the epic turn-of-the-millennium NYE celebration, Ayala Avenue is set to host a spectacular event to welcome 2024. The tradition of the New Year’s Eve countdown street party in Makati originates from the turn of the millennium, when the city hosted a grand celebration to ring in the year 2000. This event was the first of its kind in the Philippines, setting a precedent for large-scale public New Year’s Eve festivities. It was not just a party but also a community gathering, bringing together people from all walks of life to celebrate a significant milestone.

As we step into 2024, Makati eagerly brings back this cherished tradition. The aim is not just to throw a grand party, but to give back to the community that has made Makati the thriving city it is today. This year’s celebration is designed to be inclusive, inviting everyone to partake in the festivities and enjoy the night. This event is all about the power of shared experiences and the joy they bring, and all are invited, regardless of age or interest, to join in the celebration.

By rekindling this tradition, Makati hopes to create a sense of unity and belonging, to remind everyone that we’re all part of this vibrant community. The New Year’s Eve countdown street party on Ayala Avenue is a gift to the people of Makati, a thank you for their contribution to the city’s success throughout the years.

Under the theme “Nostalgia Meets the Future,” all are invited on a journey that is both a nod to the past and a toast to the future. Rewinding to 1999, the event recalls the Philippines’ very first grand-scale New Year’s Eve countdown, featuring the country’s most beloved performers headlined by Asia’s Songbird, Regine Velasquez. Families marveled in excitement as they partied and waited for the turn of the millennium at midnight.

The magic returns with the comeback of Ayala Avenue’s New Year’s Eve countdown to 2024. This celebration is all about Filipino pride – an event that spotlights the country’s top talents who have made waves on the global stage.

Prepare for a night of unparalleled entertainment as Makati welcomes to the stage some of the Philippines’ biggest names in the music scene. Regine Velasquez will once again be headlining the event together with the phenomenal P-Pop sensation, SB19. Joining them on the stage are other major performers such as Sponge Cola, Al James, and a team of talented musical theatre artists led by Gab Pangilinan and Myke Salomon. The event will be hosted by the dynamic duo Baus Rufo and Ai Dela Cruz, with direction from the acclaimed Paolo Valenciano.

The highlight of the event, a countdown to 2024, will feature a breathtaking lights and fireworks show that will illuminate the Makati skyline. As the clock strikes midnight, DJ Brian Cua and DJ Mike Lavet will lead the crowd into an all-night dance party.The main stage, located at the intersection of Makati Avenue and Ayala Avenue, will feature an impressive 3D-stage setup, complete with 7-meter tall LED screens on either side, bringing an immersive experience for all attendees. This New Year’s Eve party promises a visual and auditory feast like never before.

The celebration extends beyond the stage to a gastronomic adventure, with various Makati establishments collaborating to offer a delectable selection of food choices. Merchants will open starting at lunchtime, allowing guests to embark on a culinary journey before the evening festivities commence.

Witness the biggest New Year’s Eve Countdown in the Metro! From iconic performances to state-of-the-art technology, “Nostalgia Meets the Future: Ayala Avenue New Year’s Eve Countdown to 2024″ underscores Makati’s unwavering commitment to excellence and community.

“Nostalgia Meets the Future: Ayala Avenue New Year’s Eve Countdown to 2024” is open to everyone, free of charge, and requires no registration. Stay tuned for updates and announcements including road closures at Make It Makati’s official Facebook page. For more information, stay connected via social media – follow Make It Makati on Facebook, Instagram and X at @makeitmakati. #MakeItMakati

December 21, 2023
Exclusive Perks Await Metrobank Cardholders at the Big Bad Wolf Davao Book Sale!
A new chapter unfolds for Davaoeño Metrobank card holders as the much-anticipated Big Bad Wolf (BBW) Book Sale returns to Davao for the third time – marking the last leg of Big Bad Wolf’s 2023 run in the Philippines.

The Book Sale that promises an exciting experience for avid readers and casual book enthusiasts alike will take place at SMX Convention Center Davao, SM Lanang Premier from December 15 to 23, 2023.

With its return this holiday season, Metrobank is ringing in the sale with exclusive treats when book shoppers pay using their Metrobank credit and debit card. This is on top of the up to 95% discount they will enjoy on books!
- Early VIP Access
Snag the best reads ahead of the crowd. As a Metrobank credit or debit cardholder, enjoy exclusive early access to Big Bad Wolf Davao on December 14, 2023, from 12NN to 10PM. You can bring one (1) guest for free and dive into a treasure trove of over 2.5 million books one day before the Sale opens its doors to the public.
- 0% installment for 3 months
Enjoy payment flexibility while you expand your personal library with a 0% installment payment option for a three month term with a minimum spend of PHP3,000 using your Metrobank credit card.
- Exclusive payment lanes
Metrobank card holders are entitled to dedicated payment lanes for an easier checkout experience. Just look for the Metrobank logo as you approach the counters.
- Get a chance to win PHP20,000 cashback and earn up to PHP1,000 eGCs for your straight transaction spend
Giving you more bang for your buck, you can get a chance to be one of the 20 winners of PHP20,000 cash back with your Metrobank credit card. Earn raffle entries for every qualified spend. What’s more, you can get instant eGCs or GCash credits of up to PHP1,000 for a minimum single-receipt straight spend of PHP3,000. To qualify for this promo, don’t forget to register at mbcpc.co/holidaycashback. For more details, visit https://www.metrobank.com.ph/promos/holiday-cashback-2023
- Earn up to PHP4,000 eGCs or GCash credits on any 0% installment spend
Enjoy perks with lighter payments when you register at mbcpc.co/morewithzeroq4 before you swipe at Big Bad Wolf Davao, or any of our partner merchants! Get PHP500, PHP1,000, or PHP4,000 eGCs or GCash credits for a minimum single-receipt 0% installment spend of PHP15,000, PHP40,000, and PHP90,000, respectively. Learn more at metrobank.com.ph/promos/more-with-zero-2023.

Don’t have a Metrobank card yet? No worries! Metrobank has you covered. Swing by the Metrobank booth at the venue and apply for a Metrobank credit card.

Get a FREE trip to Australia (awarded as 300K rewards points) + waived annual fees for life when you get approved for a Metrobank World Mastercard, for a minimum required spend. Exclusive to first-time Metrobank principal cardholders with credit card/s from other bank/s. Visit www.metrobank.com.ph/promos/switch2023 to know more. Terms and conditions apply.

Rally your family and friends, and embark on a literary journey at the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale in Davao. Follow Metrobank and Metrobank Card PH on Instagram and Facebook for more details.
December 20, 2023
Kiwami Masters Kitchen: A Gathering of Japanese Culinary Masters

The Kiwami exclusive media event at Alabang Town Center was a feast for the senses, showcasing the best in Japanese cuisine. Guests enjoyed an omakase style meal with new dishes soon to hit Kiwami’s menus, explored behind the scenes in the Master kitchens, and conversations with John Concepcion, founder of The Standard Hospitality Group. The highlight was a gathering of esteemed Japanese Master Chefs and Founders, who flew in from Japan to grace this momentous occasion.

Kiwami brings the best of Japan to Manila, uniting Yabu: House of Katsu, Ippudo Ramen, Hannosuke Tempura, Yakitori Hachibei and Hokkaido Soft Cream in one space. More than a place to dine, it is where every kitchen is a masterclass in authenticity and culinary excellence. What makes Kiwami truly exceptional is that there is a dedicated master kitchen for each brand. The kitchens have their own unique set of ingredients, specialty equipment and dedicated chefs who are focused solely on perfecting their dish and refining their craft with individual brand training. At Kiwami, it is about delivering an experience that is genuinely Japanese, every time you dine.

Meet the Masters:

Yabu: Kazuya Takeda – Michelin Bib Gourmand Katsu Chef

Founded in 2011, Yabu was born with a clear mission. Partnering with Michelin Bib Gourmand Chef Kazuya Takeda, we are dedicated to perfecting the art of Tonkatsu. Yabu, celebrated for its consistency, stands as a market leader with over 19 locations. Mastering the preparation of this one dish, beginning with the finest meats, sourced exclusively from trusted partners, ensuring the authenticity and excellence at the heart of our tonkatsu. Complementing this are our farm-to-table cabbage and in-house made panko, contributing to the genuine, homemade taste in every bite. Our promise is clear-cut: if our meal doesn’t meet your expectations, it will be replaced free of charge. This pledge underscores our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction at every table, every time. Rooted in quality and consistency, our journey continues to embrace and uphold the principles that have defined our brand from the beginning.

Ippudo: Shigemi Kawahara- 3 time Ramen Master Chef Hall of Famer

Represented by Chikaranamoto CEO, Tomo Yamane
Global LC Partners Division General Manager, Yota Shiiba

Ippudo with Ramen King Shigemi Kawahara (3-time Ramen Master Chef Hall of Famer) has been celebrated for its World Famous Tonkotsu Ramen since 1985. Ippudo has been a pioneer in Hakata-style ramen made with imported 15-hour Tonkotsu broth, freshly made noodles and 30 hour slow-cooked torched Chashu. The ramen is served in custom “aritayaki” porcelain bowls originating from pottery stone mined in Mount Izumi Japan which are made to withstand piping hot ramen, reflecting the brand’s commitment to tradition and quality.

Hachibei: Katsunori Yashima – Global Yakitori Chef

Since its inception in 1983, Hachibei, under the expert guidance of Chef Katsunori Yashima, has set the standard in bringing Hakata-style yakitori to a global audience. Their distinctive use of Binchotan charcoal, a hallmark of traditional Japanese grilling, plays a pivotal role in enhancing the flavor and aroma of their dishes, showcasing their unwavering commitment to the art of yakitori. Beyond just a cooking method, Hachibei’s approach represents a dedication to authenticity and a celebration of Japanese culinary traditions. Each dish served is a testament to their meticulous attention to detail, from the selection of premium ingredients to the precision of preparation, embodying the essence of Japanese culinary craftsmanship.

Hannosuke: Shinya Kaneko – Tokyo’s Leader in Tempura

Represented by General Manager for Overseas Brand Development, Kazuhito Sato

Founded in the 1950’s, Hannosuke is renowned for its iconic tempura recipes. The use of sesame oil, specialty flour, and generational heirloom tendon sauce have made Hannosuke a symbol of culinary heritage, beloved for its light, crispy texture and timeless recipes. Hannosuke boasts of long lines at their Tokyo restaurant, a testament to its timeless culinary excellence and cherished family recipes passed down through generations.

As Kiwami wraps up its memorable media event, we look forward to the future with great excitement. This gathering of culinary mastery, uniting the best of Japan under one roof in Manila, has set a new standard in authentic Japanese dining. From the masterful art of Tonkatsu at Yabu, the celebrated Tonkotsu Ramen of Ippudo, to the traditional flavors of Hachibei’s Yakitori and Hannosuke’s iconic Tempura, Kiwami has proven to be more than a dining destination.

Looking ahead, Kiwami is committed to bringing even more of Japan’s culinary excellence to Manila. We eagerly anticipate the launch of new master kitchens, including an exciting Rice and Sushi concept by an international Top Chef, further expanding our roster. These new additions, along with plans for more Kiwami locations, underscore our dedication to offering a diverse and authentic Japanese culinary experience.

#KiwamiMastersKitchen
@Kiwami.ph / @Yabuph / @Ippudoph / @Hannosuke_Japan / @Yakitori_Hachibei

December 20, 2023