Open and loving communication has always been the message of PLDT. Remember the iconic tagline “Suportahan Ta Ka” from the 2000s TV ad? It’s making a comeback on PLDT’s 95th anniversary campaign.
From the Suportahan Ta Ka TV ad produced by Ace Saatchi & Saatchi, actor and model Christian Vasquez played a young medical student who asked for his dad’s permission if he could shift his degree to Fine Arts. As he confessed his plans, his doctor dad said, “Kung saan ka masaya ti, suportahan ta ka [Whatever makes you happy, I’ll support you!].” This one line immediately became a hit in the 2000s.
Twenty-two years since the TV commercial was launched, Christian Vasquez comes back with a true-to-life story that makes a heartwarming sequel for the iconic ad. Christian, now with two children, faces the same circumstances with his eldest son. On PLDT’s 95th anniversary video, Christian shares his own personal story.
The video tells the story of Christian’s real son, Jason (who also stars in the video), who’s due to take the engineering board exam soon and is at the same time working in an IT
company. In the video, Jason is shown stressed and tired while reviewing for his board exam. In an online video call, Jason works up the courage to tell his dad Christian about his plan not to take the board exams and wishes to stay in his IT job.
Christian expresses his disbelief and tries to encourage Jason to take the exam as it will open more opportunities for him being an engineer. Just as he’s about to tell his son off, he suddenly remembers the lesson he learned from his own story from 22 years ago — that he must also show support for his son’s dreams.
At the end of the video, Christian emphatically tells his son that he supports his decision. From his dad’s “Suportahan ta ka,” Christian lets out the line “Palangga Ta Ka,” (which means “I love you”) highlighting his unconditional love and support for his son.
Parents may not always agree with their children’s decisions, but in the end, love and meaningful communication conquer doubt. In the video campaign, PLDT highlights its message of enabling meaningful connection through every generation. From grandparents to parents and their own children, PLDT enables people to make meaningful connections even when they are far apart. Or even when the family may not agree with your decisions — love prevails.
On its 95th anniversary celebration, PLDT reminds families of this powerful message and the importance of love, respect, and kindness in connecting with each other.
Lights, camera, family fun time! Get ready for a special holiday extravaganza with Netflix that is bound to keep everyone in the family entertained. From animated adventures that will ignite the imaginations of the little ones, to hilarious comedies that will have everyone in stitches, and even nostalgic classics that will transport you through time, we’ve got it all! So gather ’round, grab your favorite snacks, and get ready for a cinematic journey filled with laughter, joy, and unforgettable bonding moments. It’s time to dim the lights, press play, and let the holiday magic unfold!
Here’s what to watch if your family is in the mood for…
Hold onto your fur and prepare to be whisked away on an extraordinary escapade that will ignite your imagination and set your spirit soaring! Join the charismatic Mr. Wolf and his band of intrepid animal adventurers on a mission to restore the city’s holiday spirit while keeping their annual holiday heist on track. This animated odyssey is an exquisite blend of heart-stopping excitement, mind-bending wonder, and pure, unadulterated magic, making it an absolute treat for everyone in the family. So gather around the screen and get ready to join the furry fun that will leave everyone begging for more!
Brace yourself for a breathtaking fusion of heart-pounding action, fantastical landscapes, and the indomitable spirit of adventure! Join forces with brave ponies and mighty dragons as they forge an unlikely alliance and push the boundaries of bravery. But this isn’t just a tale for the young; it’s an epic adventure that adults can enjoy alongside their little ones – delve into the depths of friendship, bravery, and the indomitable power of unity that resonates with the human spirit. This will be an experience that will ignite your imagination and remind you that heroism knows no age limit!
Prepare for a wild and uproariously funny coming-of-age musical comedy, LEO, that will transport you back to the thrilling mayhem of elementary school’s final frontier. With Adam Sandler bringing Leo, the class pet, to life in scaly and sensational fashion, this riotous extravaganza will have you tapping your feet to infectious rhythms and catchy tunes while witnessing the magic of childhood through Leo’s triumphs and tribulations. From the youngest viewers to the young at heart, LEO will leave you with a smile that lingers long after the final curtain falls.
Teleport your family into a whole new dimension of holiday hilarity that will have the whole family in stitches! From awkward encounters to hilarious mishaps, this multi-generational comedy extravaganza guarantees an out-of-this-world entertainment experience for everyone. Buckle up and join this zany family on a rollercoaster ride of belly laughs, heartfelt moments, and the ultimate quest to find the true meaning of Christmas amidst the chaos.
After 23 long years, the greatest hen-semble of all time is back! Get ready for feathers, fun, and fowl play as Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget takes flight into the hearts of viewers of all ages. Join a determined group of chickens as they hatch a daring escape plan from their life on a farm – this animated masterpiece is a timeless tale that will have the whole family clucking with laughter and cheering for our fearless feathered friends. With witty dialogue, heartwarming characters, and egg-ceptional animation, this film is the perfect bridge between the young and old in the family with its clever humor and thrilling adventures. So gather the whole flock and settle in for a clucking good time, for some stories are just too good to be contained within one generation!
Calling all Pokémon trainers past and present! It’s time to gather your Poké Balls, don your team colors, and prepare for an electrifying journey that will transport you back to the golden age of Pokémon – this time with an expanded twist. Slip into the shoes of Haru, the spirited concierge at the renowned Pokémon Resort, and get ready to be reminded of the timeless magic of Pokémon. Brace yourself for a truly magical ride as you witness the unbreakable bond between trainers and their beloved Pokémon. It’s time to relive the triumph of catching ’em all!
About Netflix:
Netflix is one of the world’s leading entertainment services with over 247 million paid memberships in over 190 countries enjoying TV series, films and games across a wide variety of genres and languages. Members can play, pause and resume watching as much as they want, anytime, anywhere, and can change their plans at any time.
After a series of music releases that garnered multiple nominations, Nicole Laurel Asensio is set to release on December 1 a brand new original Christmas duet entitled “Sana Masaya Ka” with iconic OPM artist Jeffrey Hidalgo, produced by Gabe Dandan and released under Warner Music.
“Sana Masaya Ka” is a bittersweet duet that unfolds the story between former lovers spending their first holiday season apart. Nicole’s silken vocals evoke nostalgia and Jeffrey Hidalgo’s smoky timbre resonates deeply into the very fibres of the bed of instruments arranged by Gabe Dandan. The classic and organic elements brought by strings and woodwind sections blanket the song with a much needed warmth and familiarity as the characters sing of healed hearts and happier holidays to come.
“It was well past midnight when I was in the throes of compiling lyrics and melodies for a different Christmas release.
Gabe arrived at the studio coming from another Christmas project. Because the holiday spirit was still ringing in our ears, I wanted to try writing another Christmas song even if it was creeping close to sunrise. Gabe begun jamming chords with a classic OPM feel and slow jazz accents, I loved them instantly. The challenge now for me was to express my sentiments in Tagalog. Save for some lyrical adjustments, the songwriting was done in one session,” Nicole shares.
“Our process is very spontaneous, it creates a creative environment that allows us to surprise ourselves. After finishing the song, Nicole expressed that she wanted to try making it a Christmas duet because it was something we haven’t done. I immediately thought of Jeffrey Hidalgo as a perfect match for Nicole and the song because of his warm smoky vocal tone,” Gabe Dandan echoed.
“I was delighted hearing Gabe’s suggestion, I have a lot of respect for Jeffrey as a singer, actor and director, his voice really is something special. It took me about a week to muster up the courage to ask him if he was willing to do this and then send him a demo. It didn’t take Jeffrey long to respond and when he said yes, i was so grateful… it was a clear sign that I had to save my other Christmas project for another year and finish off 2023 with this one,” Nicole added.
“The last time I had a Christmas single was 25 years ago so I am really looking forward to the release of this track. Nicole and Gabe asking me to do this collab is really an unexpected blessing, ” Jeffrey Hidalgo exclaimed.
The Recording Process
“Working with Jeffrey for the first time and Nicole numerous times was very chill and spontaneous, we were just recording over food and drinks at Nicole’s home studio, despite the relaxed setting it was a very productive evening, ” Gabe Dandan added.
“This was one of the best collaboration experiences I’ve had in the studio if not, the best! My favourite aspect of being a musician is the recording process and recording this single was the most fun I’ve had in the studio. I enjoyed working with Nicole and Gabe immensely. I loved how they took me out of my comfort zone with out-of-the-box harmonies that were peculiar but so delectable to the ears. I loved their vision for the song form the get-go, so I was all in,” Jeffrey replied.
“Jeffrey has a beautiful signature vocal tone that can smooth over the rough edges of even the most painful lyrics and make it an easy listen. His depth as an actor/director makes his delivery and storytelling hit home. I learned a lot while tracking him. It makes me smile when I think about how this project is entirely homegrown and home recorded. Lawrence Nolan recorded himself playing drums from his home, Gabe played Bass, Guitar, Hammond and Rhodes as well as sang backup vocals from home. The strings and woodwinds played by Ted Amper and Carlo Mikhail were recorded by us in my home and our friends Jess Fermino, Mark Enriquez and myself took turns tracking vocals. Learning the quirks of the process and making mistakes was definitely part of what made this song even more memorable,” Nicole beamed.
“Recording the musicians was smooth because all the musicians we worked with are not just talented but patient, I did the string and woodwind arrangement on the spot and hummed it to Ted (Cello) and Carl (Woodwinds and violin) on the fly Carl and Ted were so easy to work with. I am thankful for our friends in music,” Gabe shared.
The song was then sent to Angee Rozul for mixing then to Waxie Joaquin and Enrique Santamaria of Waxiefied Sound Production for further Mixing and Mastering in Dolby Atmos.
“Though I’m more known as a pop balladeer, my personal musical preference really leans more towards the indie-alternative genre. I’ve been a fan of Nicole ever since General Luna, and a bigger fan now that she’s a solo artist. I love how distinct her voice is and how she seems to be comfortable in whatever genre she dips her feet into. Our collaboration might seem unexpected to some but after hearing our voices together, I love how it all just makes perfect sense. I love how Gabe and Nicole both know exactly what they want yet, they let me explore as well within my vocal range and style” Jeffrey replied.
“Hindi man tinadhana, sana masaya ka”
“It really is a bittersweet season for some, I wrote the lyrics and melody because not everyone’s Christmas is “Merry” Though it is easier said than done, focusing on the blessings gets us by. Relationships fail. People make mistakes and grow apart. However, the markings of truly loving someone is wishing them love and happiness even if you are no longer involved with them…you still want to know they are alright, and that they’ll still have a Merry Christmas even if you’re not in the picture anymore. I suppose one would dedicate this song to their TOTGA (the one that got away),” Nicole muses.
“I think I have 2 TOTGAs that I would have dedicated this song to, many many years back. I am just so glad I’m not in the position of the characters in the song nowadays. I’m in a much better place. LOL! But seriously, I am sure many people will be able to relate to this song if not at the moment, then at some point because because this has happened to a lot of us. You sincerely want to wish a past lover happiness, yet deep inside, you still really want to be with that person too. Ouch. Hahaha!,” Jeffrey jokingly said.
“Pagsapit ng bagong taon… saan ka man naroroon.”
“I am looking forward to next year because we will be working on compilations and EPs instead of singles, more ideas to execute, much more music to be made. I’m very excited for the different musical styles Nicole and I will be exploring,” Gabe said.
“Working with Gabe as a producer, sparked the producer in me as well and I am suddenly hungry to create more music next year,” Jeffrey gives a wink.
“I am grateful to still be making music and happy whenever inspiration strikes. More songs are already in the works for next year. I don’t know how many years on earth I’ll have to do this, and that makes me so much more grateful for the instances God allows creativity to flow, ” Nicole concludes.
Hiling ko lang ngayong pasko, Sana masaya kayo!
SONG CREDITS
Lyrics: Nicole Asensio Music: Nicole Asensio, Gabe Dandan, Musical Director: Gabe Dandan Drums: Lawrence Nolan Bass: Gabe Dandan Guitar: Gabe Dandan Piano: Brad Coronel Rhodes and Hammond: Gabe Dandan Violin: Carlo Mikhail Cello: Ted Amper Mikhail Vocals: Nicole Asensio, Jeffrey Hidalgo Backup Vocal Arr. Gabe Dandan and Nicole Asensio Backup Vocals: Gabe Dandan, Nicole Asensio Recording Engineers: Gabe Dandan, Nicole Asensio, Jess Fermino, Mark Enriquez Mixing Engineers: Angee Rozul, Waxie Joaquin, Ek Santamaria Mastering Engineers: Waxie Joaquin, Ek Santamaria
“Wonka,” starring Timothée Chalamet as the beloved chocolate maker, will be shown in IMAX as well. The movie, directed by Paul King and also starring Hugh Grant, Rowan Atkinson, Olivia Colman, Keegan-Michael Key and Sally Hawkins, opens in Philippine cinemas December 6, one week ahead of the U.S. – yet another treat for Filipino moviegoers!
In the meantime, check out this sweet guide to the yummy treats in “Wonka”:
Hoverchoc
A marvelous morsel, an incredible edible, the Hoverchoc is an exotic combination of purest Wonka chocolate, marshmallow (from the mallow-marshes of Peru), caramel (salted with the bitter-sweet tears of a Russian Clown) and cherry (cherry-picked by the pick of the cherry pickers in the Imperial Gardens of Japan.) But the real secret lies at the center: a microscopic hover-fly that beats its wings so powerfully it allows the consumer to float. After 20 minutes, the hover-fly will tire and exit through the rear.
Silver Lining
Made of condensed thunder clouds and liquid sunlight, the Silver Lining helps you see that faint ray of hope beyond the shadow of despair. Side effects may include saying the word “huh” more often than normal.
Big Night Out
A single chocolate that mimics a night on the town. The outer layer is champagne truffle. Then comes white wine, followed by red. That’s when the singing and dancing starts. Next is a layer of whisky fudge (which may prompt deep emotions and reckless behavior), followed by some old port which prompts a deep lasting sleep.
A tiny aspirin at the center of the chocolate fizzes on the tongue causing the victim / consumer to wake up with a strange aftertaste of shame and regret, but come five o’clock they will want to do it all over again.
Giraffe Milk Macaroon
Made with the distilled milk of a giraffe, this macaroon will restore your zeal and make you feel the tallest in the room. Say farewell to feeling small, and frightened of it all. With Wonka’s Giraffe Milk Macaroon, you’ll feel ten feet tall!
Forty Second Sweet
This little marvel – known colloquially as the Broadway Choc – will make you break into song and dance. Share it with your friends and soon your whole life will be like a perfectly choreographed Broadway Show!
Hair Repair Éclair
Lost your hair? Can’t think quite where? Feeling fairly bare up there? Don’t despair! Wonka’s prepared! Behold his hair repair eclair. Made from ground vanilla, from the mountains of Manila, it includes a single drop of yeti sweat which will prompt full, thick growth. Try mixing it with chameleon juice for even more colorful results!
Acacia Mint
Along with a good scratch behind the ears, nothing soothes the inquisitive soul of Abigail the Giraffe – or puts her in a more generous mood – like a handful of Willy Wonka’s Acacia Mints.
The Wonka Bar
Every year for his birthday, Willy’s Mamma gave him a single bar of chocolate, lovingly secured in a homemade wrapper. Willy has saved the last bar of Mamma’s Chocolate, until the moment when he fulfills his promise to her, that one day he would share their chocolate with the world. A lucky few may find a golden ticket hidden within…
Get ready to feast your eyes on “Wonka,” opening exclusively in Philippine cinemas, including in IMAX, December 6. #WonkaMovie
About “Wonka”
Based on the extraordinary character at the center of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” Roald Dahl’s most iconic children’s book and one of the best-selling children’s books of all time, “Wonka” tells the wondrous story of how the world’s greatest inventor, magician and chocolate-maker became the beloved Willy Wonka we know today. “Wonka” is an intoxicating mix of magic and music, mayhem and emotion, all told with fabulous heart and humor. Starring Timothée Chalamet in the title role, this irresistibly vivid and inventive big screen spectacle will introduce audiences to a young Willy Wonka, chock-full of ideas and determined to change the world one delectable bite at a time—proving that the best things in life begin with a dream, and if you’re lucky enough to meet Willy Wonka, anything is possible.
Directed by Paul King, with a screenplay he co-wrote with Simon Farnaby. Produced by David Heyman, Alexandra Derbyshire and Luke Kelly.
Starring alongside Chalamet are Calah Lane (“The Day Shall Come”), Emmy and Peabody Award winner Keegan-Michael Key (“The Prom,” “Schmigadoon”), Paterson Joseph (“Vigil,” “Noughts + Crosses”), Matt Lucas (“Paddington,” “Little Britain”), Mathew Baynton (“The Wrong Mans,” “Ghosts”), Oscar nominee Sally Hawkins (“The Shape of Water,” the “Paddington” films, “Spencer”), Rowan Atkinson (the “Johnny English” and “Mr. Bean” films, “Love Actually”), Jim Carter (“Downton Abbey”), with Oscar winner Olivia Colman (“The Favourite”). The film also stars Natasha Rothwell (“White Lotus,” “Insecure”), Rich Fulcher (“Marriage Story,” “Disenchantment”), Rakhee Thakrar (“Sex Education,” “Four Weddings and a Funeral”), Tom Davis (“Paddington 2,” “King Gary”) and Kobna Holdbrook-Smith (“Paddington 2,” “Zack Snyder’s Justice League,” “Mary Poppins Returns”).
In cinemas December 6, “Wonka” is distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company.
Join the conversation online and use the hashtag #WonkaMovie
The Philippines holds diverse meanings for different individuals — just like the 7,000-plus islands it embraces. For foreigners visiting the country for the first time or locals who want a more unique way of exploring the islands, there can be a deeper, personal, and more sustainable way to uncover the beauty of the Philippines — courtesy of Explora Ahora.
Recently launched, Explora Ahora is a travel company with a mission to introduce to the world genuine Philippine adventures emphasizing community tourism. Ahora (which means “now” in Spanish) invites everyone to experience the country’s mesmerizing landscapes, seascapes, and renowned Filipino hospitality, promising travelers a genuine connection with the Philippines and its people.
Founded by young entrepreneur Angely Dub, who also established the successful Access Travel, Explora Ahora returns to its roots.
“While Access Travel connects our clients globally, Explora Ahora brings them closer to the heart of our home,” said Angely, who was born and raised in the Philippines. “I want them to see our beautiful country with new eyes — we are more than our beaches and sunsets; we are beyond a typical backpackers’ destination.”
Drawing on 12 years of travel expertise from Access Travel, Explora Ahora charts a new path — offering curated local experiences. This includes activities such as diving with a local diver in the pristine islands of Palawan and Bohol or exploring rich heritage sites with a history scholar in provinces such as Ifugao, Bulacan, or Iloilo. For food, the culinary experience is heightened with stories from the chefs and cooks, even letting guests embark on a “soil-to-soul” journey of the produce they consume.
Since Explora Ahora’s tour experiences are crafted in collaboration with local communities, these not only promote cultural immersion but also emphasize sustainable tourism, benefiting local economies and preserving the environment in the process. With groups kept to a minimum, each journey becomes more intimate, going beyond merely hopping from one place to another.
“Explora Ahora’s goal is to be the foremost choice for travelers seeking the Philippines’ true essence,” said Angely. “Therefore, we made sure that we do not offer the usual touristy itinerary, as we aim to elevate the travelers’ experience to something more personal and experiential.”
Explora Ahora’s young and dynamic team has a deep knowledge of the Philippines, and complemented with partnerships with those from the local communities, they can tailor itineraries that cater to individual traveler interests. The offering includes assured quality in accommodations, transportation, unparalleled customer service, and a seamless cashless booking system. All itineraries are guaranteed to be tested first by the Explora Ahora team, including Angely herself, ensuring clients embark on a journey that’s been well-vetted.
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Discover the extraordinary now with Explora Ahora —whether it’s island hopping, historical explorations, cultural immersions, culinary adventures, and more — as it guarantees seamless and safe travel, where you worry only about your next IG story. More details can be found at www.exploraahora.com.
Imagine the delight on the faces of your family members as you set down the new Pan de Manila paper bags on your dining table. Inside the bags are your household’s usual fare: pandesal and spreads and boxes of creamy coffee blends. On the paper bag’s exterior and in the holiday packaging of your favorite Cafe con Leche and Chocolate con Leche, a traditional Filipino stone house stands in the middle of laidback plaza life. Women in their baro’t saya stand under the shade of a towering mango tree as onlookers in traditional Spanish-era garb continue to prepare for the noche buena ahead. With packaging this beautiful, you can give them as gifts, store them as keepsakes, or put them on display in a corner of your home.
Known for serving our favorite pandesal in the Philippines, Pan de Manila has always been a purveyor of Filipino traditions, celebrations, and recipes. One of their yearly traditions is collaborating with local artists to promote Filipino arts. Through this special illustrated design collaboration with iconic graphic designer Mia de Lara, Pan de Manila releases this nostalgic and elegant packaging for Christmas.
Dreaming in sepia – a Filipino Christmas throwback
Pan de Manila’s Christmas theme this year is Kay Sarap Balikan, Paskong Nakaraan. Whenever we talk about our favorite Christmas memories, we always go back to simpler and slower times. No matter what generation we are from, we always think of coming together as a family during Christmas.
As you gather around the table this year, Pan de Manila pairs the experience with holiday packaging that you’ll want to keep for years to come. De Lara’s artwork is long-lasting– like Filipino celebrations of Christmas.
About the artwork
The intricate plaza scene by Mia de Lara invokes an important conversation with history. By showing the generation today what an idyllic Filipino life once was, Mia crafted an original drawing that is not only pleasing to the senses but also emotionally stirring and uplifting.
While she was making the artwork for Pan de Manila’s holiday packaging, she thought of the delicious feasts that awaited her family whenever they would travel to Pampanga, her mother’s hometown, to celebrate together. “I think what makes a Filipino Christmas truly unique is the family ties that bind us closely together,” shared Mia. “No matter how far away you are in the world, Christmas signals homecoming, reunion, and reconciliation.”
Rekindling Christmas traditions with family
So what awaits your Christmas homecoming this year? As you share stories and make new memories around the dining table, Pan de Manila hopes that you rekindle the family spark of Christmas by going back to your Filipino roots. You can even celebrate with relatives by enjoying traditional Filipino meals at Merienda by Pan de Manila. The new restaurant cafe of our favorite bakery chain celebrates Filipino heritage by curating the best flavors from different provinces so you may relive the warmth of your childhood days from right here in the city.
As the kids count down at midnight, take a quick look at De Lara’s intricate plaza scene on Pan de Manila’s holiday packaging and let nostalgia wash over your senses. Elegant and timeless. Just like a traditional Filipino Christmas.
For the past 15 years, Pan de Manila has featured the works of up-and-coming local artists on its Filipino Art-inspired Christmas paper bags. Past years’ collaboration includes artists such as Larry Memije, Rina Albert-Llamas, Dante Hipolito, Amador Barquilla, Jovan Benito, Bibsy Torio, Noel Mahilum, Christian Regis, among others.
For the latest updates and more information, follow @PandeManilaOfficial on FB and IG, and @Meriendamanila on IG.
AKLANONS can look forward to an unforgettable night of music as the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO) serenades them live in concert on November 29, 2023, 7pm, at the Aklan Provincial Capitol, in front of the Godofredo P. Ramos Park, in Kalibo, Aklan.
Billed Hala Bira PPO sa Kalibo, audiences can catch the PPO, led by Dr. Herminigildo G. Ranera, perform familiar tunes like Mikhail Glinka’s “Russian and Ludmilla Overture”, Johannes Brahms’ “Hungarian Dance No. 5”, Peter Ilich Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker Suite, Camille Sains Saens’ “Danse Bacchanale” from the opera Samson et Dalila, Selections from Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein’s “The Sound of Music”, and Ernani Cuenco’s “Gaano Ko Ikaw Kamahal”. Surprise numbers are included in the repertoire especially programmed for the Aklanon audience.
“Asia’s Golden Girl” and three-time Aliw Award winner soprano Gerphil Flores-Libana and classically-trained tenor and musical theatre actor Arman Ferrer will be the guest performers in the Aklan concert.
Known for their colorful Ati-Atihan Festival, the Mother of all Filipino festivals, Aklanons shout “hala bira” which means “let’s go crazy!” or “let’s party!”. It is also an expression of joy and excitement during the celebration Aklanons boast on a vibrant and artistically inclined culture, especially in music, with well-developed courtship songs or kundiman, wedding hymns, and funeral rituals.. They are also widely known for their creativity and skilled craftsmanship evident in their traditional arts and crafts.
Everyone is invited to attend and experience this free concert presented by the Cultural Center of the Philippines in partnership with the Local Government of Aklan through the Office of Mayor Juris Sucro.
Hala Bira PPO sa Kalibo is part of the CCP’s Outreach Program in its mission to promote and preserve the best of Filipino Arts and Culture by embodying the values of Katotohanan (truth), Kagandahan (beauty) and Kabutihan (goodness).
The CCP outreach program, under the CCP Office of the President, focuses on expanding the Center’s reach to the regions by showcasing the CCP brand of productions and shows in the country, while nurturing the next generation of artists and cultural workers, engaging the public to address art education and appreciation, and creating critical conversations and cultural exchanges among stakeholders to usher in national development, especially among the youths.
Established in 1973 as an accompaniment for the performing artists at the CCP , the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra has become the country’s leading orchestra and is widely regarded as one of the best in the country. It has performed with world’s renowned conductors including Mendi Rodan, Piero Gamba, Enrique Batis, Sebastian Bereau, and Nicholas Koch, as well as performed with the best foreign and Filipino artists such as Van Cliburn, Renata Tebaldi, Judith Engel, Anthony Camden, David Benoit, Cecile Licad, Raul Sunico, and Lea Salonga.
The PPO toured Europe in 2001 and participated in the Asia Orchestra Week in September 2002 held at the Tokyo Opera City Hall upon the invitation of the Association of Japanese Symphony Orchestras. It performed at Bangkok’s National Theater in September 2004 upon the invitation of Her Royal Highness Princess Galyani Vandhana of Thailand. In June 2016, PPO made history when it became the first Filipino orchestra to perform at the world-renowned Carnegie Hall in New York City.
Celebrating its 50th anniversary, the PPO will be in Nueva Ecija on December 9, and Bulacan on December 18 for its next outreach concerts.
Visit the CCP website (culturalcenter.gov.ph) or follow the official social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates.
In a rapidly evolving market, customer experience is becoming the cornerstone of business success. Recent studies have highlighted the undeniable importance of providing exceptional customer service. Notably, a PwC study indicated that customers are willing to pay a premium for top-notch service, while 32% would abandon a brand after just one poor experience. Moreover, according to the Temkin Group, loyal customers are significantly more likely to repurchase, forgive mistakes, and refer a brand.
In response to these insights, GCash for Business hosted the “Experience Easy” Business Summit, aimed at equipping Philippine companies of all sizes with the tools needed to meet the rising expectations of the local market.
“Customers have their own point of view of what they expect from brands they interact with, and they’re not shy about letting everyone know. This forces businesses to face two realities: they can learn directly from their customers what they need, but they can also be immediately called out for unfavorable service,” said Kate Cruz, Head of B2B Marketing. “As a finance super app with millions of users, GCash is uniquely positioned to know exactly what Filipinos want to help businesses create enjoyable and relevant experiences for their customers at every touchpoint.”
Experience Easy with GCash for Business
With mobile usage accounting for about 70% of internet traffic and with a projection to increase in the coming years, businesses have ample opportunities to offer meaningful experiences to their customers. However, with countless channels to choose from, creating such experiences can become overwhelming and expensive.
With a multitude of financial products and services available for every Filipino, GCash for Business makes it easy for companies to effectively engage multiple customer touch points and address critical challenges to achieve specific goals.
Experience Easy and Preferred Payments
The Philippines is already considered as one of the largest and quickly expanding eCommerce markets in the world, and the fight for market share in this space will only get tougher. As a consumption-driven market, Filipinos are also motivated to purchase more when there are less barriers to deal with.
With GCash for Business, companies can give their customers a seamless experience with every transaction for an already captured market of over millions of users. Merchant transactions can be conveniently and quickly done online via Webpay,or in-store via Scan-to-Pay, allowing customers to pay however and whenever they want.
To also avoid long queues, Scan to Order was also recently introduced wherein customers can now order directly on the GCash app. They can easily skip the queue, order and pay directly on the app and go straight to the store for pick up – improving the overall shopping experience.
Experience Easy and Relevant Advertisements
With customer loyalty becoming more elusive than ever, personalization has become a key strategy for all businesses. Customers have high expectations from businesses to know their interests by offering relevant recommendations and targeted promotions.
With GCash for Business Ad Solutions, companies can easily create tailor-fit and timely messaging based on customer behavior. They also have easy access to promo solutions that include affinity targeting, geo-targeted ads, and hyper-AI ads to reach exactly who they want to reach when they need to be reached.
Experience Easy and Flexible Installment Options
Every transaction and every sale is valuable in a highly competitive environment, and it’s up to each merchant to help customers on a tighter budget make the purchase. When customers deal with less financial burden every time they buy, businesses can convert more visits to sales while giving customers freedom to manage their transactions in the easiest way possible.
For eligible GCash users, businesses can offer different flexible payment plans and options via GGives, the easy-to-pay installment plan, or GCredit, an extended credit line. Whether online or in-store, merchants can take advantage of lending solutions fit for their business model and their customers.
Experience Easy and Efficient Disbursements
Good customer experience should be carried end-to-end, which happens beyond the point where customers receive their products or services. While businesses tend to focus on putting their offers on the market, customers continue to expect positive engagement long after the transaction is completed.
GCash for Business Funds Disbursement Solutions gives businesses the flexibility to complete online or offline transactions in various ways. This also eliminates the hassle and associated risks of cash handling especially when it comes to large payments. Coupled with upgraded incentives such as customizable vouchers or even the availability of a GCash Card, businesses can easily facilitate convenient and rewarding experiences for end customers throughout their entire purchase journey.
“There are many ways to engage a customer – the trick is knowing how to do it right,” said Luigi Reyes, VP for Commercial Sales and Operations. “Although there are many technologies available, we focus on providing our clients and partners with the essential elements that customers value the most – speed, convenience, and personalization. With GCash for Business, both businesses and their customers can benefit from an easy-to-use platform that streamlines transactions and enhances their overall experience.”
Companies have the opportunity to engage and retain their customer base by fulfilling their demands. With the increasing popularity of digital payments and online transactions, enterprises in the Philippines can now offer easy and flexible payment options and rewards, both online and offline, to millions of Filipinos through GCash for Business.
GCash for Business offers Philippine enterprises a valuable opportunity to enhance customer engagement. By leveraging digital solutions that prioritize user experience, businesses can stay ahead in an increasingly competitive market.
This holiday season, Bo’s Coffee, a beloved Filipino brand, is set to captivate taste buds and warm hearts with its exclusive “Paskong Pinoy” menu. Unveiling a limited-time offering that embodies the essence of Filipino Christmas, Bo’s Coffee introduces an array of seasonal delights that includes the perennial favorite Dark Mocha Macadamia Froccino. This year, they are introducing the Davao Tableya Series, paying homage to world-class local chocolate with Davao Tableya Mocha Froccino, Davao Tableya Iced Mocha and Davao Tableya Hot Mocha.
The holiday menu is thoughtfully complemented by traditional Paskong Pinoy treats, featuring Mini Bibingka in Original, Cream Cheese, and Ube Cheese variants. Customers will surely enjoy the indulgent Bibingka Cheesecake, made with queso de bola on a graham cracker crust, and the decadent Tableya Chocolate Cake, a moist and rich chocolate delight.
Steve Benitez, the visionary Chief Executive Officer of Bo’s Coffee, explained how they came about creating the festive lineup, saying, “We wanted a holiday menu that not only delights the taste buds but also resonates with the warmth and joy of a Filipino Christmas. Our Dark Mocha Macadamia Froccino, a returning favorite, is something our customers eagerly anticipate during this special time of the year.”
To kick-off the launch of the Paskong Pinoy menu and celebrate a successful year after post-pandemic challenges, Bo’s Coffee hosted a Salo-Salo at their flagship store in Capitol, Cebu last November 16, 2023. The event was attended by CEO Steve Benitez, SVP-Chief Operating Officer Rachel Fallarme, VP-Global Franchise Ivy Benatiro, and marketing team led by AVP-Director for Marketing Laine Vallar.
Another Paskong Pinoy Salo Salo was held at Bo’s Coffee Glorietta 5 last November 22, 2023, the chain’s Manila flagship store. The intimate media event was a thanksgiving occasion for a fruitful year coming out of the pandemic.
As a brand deeply rooted in Filipino pride, Bo’s Coffee consistently showcases Filipino flavors throughout the year. The menu features popular drinks like Iced Creamy Latte, Iced Caramel Latte, and Cold White Brew, all made with world-class Philippine coffee sourced from local farmers. The brand’s commitment to fairtrade supports coffee farmers across the Philippines, from Sagada and Benguet to Mt. Apo, Mt. Kitanglad, and Mt. Matutum.
Benitez emphasized, “Our advocacy has always been putting the spotlight on Philippine Coffee Origins, believing that the taste, flavor, and quality our coffee beans can compete on the world stage.”
Bo’s Coffee, founded in Cebu in 1996, has expanded to over 130 branches nationwide and has a growing presence in the global market, particularly in the Middle East. The company, known for its warm Filipino hospitality, has plans to open in two more countries soon.
In addition to its staple coffee offerings, Bo’s Coffee has diversified its menu to include not only pastries but also filling meals such as pastas, sandwiches, and cakes. Their coffee shops, designed with a distinct Filipino aesthetic, provide a relaxing ambiance, making them ideal spaces for study sessions and meetings.
Responding to market demand, Bo’s Coffee is actively expanding its presence in Metro Manila and NCR through franchising. The brand attributes its staying power to its world-class, high-quality homegrown coffee, served with the warmth of Filipino hospitality.
Bo’s Coffee has also embraced the digital era, strengthening its online presence with robust e-commerce portals and partnerships with aggregator platforms.
For more information about them and its Paskong Pinoy offering, visit boscoffee.com and follow the brand on social media at Bo’s Coffee on Facebook, Instragram, and Tiktok.
There’s never been a better time to upgrade to a unique smartphone experience. This Black Friday, switch to Nothing and enjoy massive savings at Beyond the Box, Digital Walker, and open_source by Beyond the Box.
From November 24-30, customers can purchase the Nothing Phone (2) with up to P4,499 in savings at Digital Walker and Open_Source by Beyond the Box. This premium handset features an improved glyph interface that does more than lights and sounds. Its cameras are also better than ever for more dynamic photos and bright videos.
The Phone (2) 12+256GB variant in white and dark gray now retails for P35,091.00 from the original P38,990.00. Or go for a more powerful option with the Phone (2) 12+512GB in white and dark gray for only P40,491.00 from the SRP P44,990.
What’s better than getting a new phone? Pairing it with reliable earbuds to get in your groove hands-free. Treat yourself to truly authentic sound with Ear (2) for only P6,792.00 from P8,490.00 SRP. Head over to any Beyond the Box, Digital Walker, and open_source by Beyond the Box to experience the might of ultralight brilliance with personalized Active Noise Cancellation at its best price yet. Not only do you get a winning audio experience, you also get a stylish pair of earbuds that stacks up against the rest.
But wait, there’s more. Be ahead of the pack and buy your Nothing Phone (2) at Digital Walker Ayala Glorietta 2, Digital Walker SM Mall of Asia, Digital Walker SM Aura, Digital Walker SM Megamall, and Digital Walker Megaworld Eastwood on the first day (November 24) to get a complete Nothing swag pack* worth P5,730 (Until supplies last). The freebie set includes a sticker pack, 3D sticker, black cap, black tote bag, large blue T-shirt, a drop box, and a Thank You card exclusively from Nothing.
Discounts are also available when you purchase Nothing Phone (2) and Ear (2) on the websites of Digital Walker (www.digitalwalker.ph) and Beyond the Box (beyondthebox.ph) and on Shopee and Lazada.
Meanwhile, the freebie set is available on the Digital Walker website –www.digitalwalker.ph.
*Promo may run in conjunction with the discount promo in select Digital Walker stores.
