Ahead of the official launch of Disney+ in the Philippines on November 17, Alipay+ together with its e-wallet partner GCash today announced that it will offer Disney+ as part of a special package to users of the Philippines’ No.1 e-wallet, GCash.
As part of an early bird deal from November 4 until November 16, GCash users in the Philippines with Alipay+ Rewards can sign up for the special package that includes Disney+ annual subscriptions, when they pay with their GCash e-wallet via Alipay+ Rewards on the GCash app.
Subscribers will be able to start streaming Disney+ from November 17, to watch exciting general entertainment content from iconic brands including Disney, Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, National Geographic and Star.
“We’re delighted that consumers in the Philippines will very soon be able to access our vast library of entertainment content on Disney+ and connect with their favorite characters and stories anytime they want,” said David Shin, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, Southeast Asia, Taiwan and Hong Kong, The Walt Disney Company. “Consumers will be able to stream exclusive originals, blockbuster films, series, documentaries, and incredible content from Disney’s iconic suite of brands and franchises.”
Disney+ is the exclusive streaming home of an ever-growing library of global, regional and Asian language content such as blockbuster films from the Marvel Cinematic Universe to award-winning Pixar animation, to Korean content featuring BTS and other top Asian stars, under the Star brand.
Star also offers renowned movies and shows such as Emmy-award winning Grey’s Anatomy, Only Murders in The Building, The Bear, The Simpsons and The Kardashians. In addition, Star delivers exclusive originals produced in collaboration with producers and directors in the Asia Pacific region.
“As a company committed to delivering more value and choice to our customers, we are thrilled to be bringing Disney+ to consumers to offer access to a great selection of global, regional and Asian language entertainment to consumers across the Philippines,” said Jing Yin, General Manager of Global Strategic Accounts of International Business Group at Ant Group. “With innovative payment and marketing solutions, Alipay+ serves as a cross-border economic connector enabling consumers to make payments on global platforms to enjoy more rewards including world-class entertainment experiences through their preferred digital wallets.”
“Through GCash and Alipay+, Disney fans can enjoy their favorite movies and shows in just a few taps. We recognize this significant opportunity in the entertainment and streaming space and have high hopes for Disney+ in the Philippines market,” said Winsley Bangit, Chief Customer Officer of Mynt – operator of GCash.
After the debut of Disney+ on November 17, consumers in the Philippines can continue to use their GCash e-wallets via Alipay+ to subscribe for the popular global streaming service.
Makati is the home of various Christmas initiatives that have become annual traditions. For decades, families have been flocking together to witness the brightly-lit Ayala Avenue with festive decorations that fascinate adults and children alike. This yearly event would always be followed by the Festival of Lights, which is a brilliant, family-oriented show at Ayala Triangle Gardens. However, with the recent pandemic that quaked the nation, traditions were challenged and face-to-face gatherings stopped…but only for a while.
(L – R, seated) Shiella Aguilar, Estate Head for Makati; Mel Ignacio, Senior Estate Head of Makati; Chrissy Roa, Head of Marketing and Communications, Ayala Land Estates (L – R, standing) Sharon Vital, Marketing Manager for Makati; Sueyen Austero, Festival of Lights 2022 lighting designer; Misha Quimpo, Project Development Manager for Makati; Ohm David, Festival of Lights 2022 show director; Alex Jamisola, Senior Marketing Associate for Makati
In 2020 and 2021, Ayala Land held its traditional events either virtually or on a very intimate scale on site. But now, after a two-year hiatus, Makati will once again MAKE CHRISTMAS HAPPEN. This 2022, Ayala Land invites everyone to celebrate the kind of Christmas that they love and miss by launching a series of BIGGER and BRIGHTER displays and events running from November to December.
Ready to ignite your spirit this holly-jolly season? Check out these events happening in none other than the vibrant and trailblazing city of Makati.
This year, to show that the Christmas spirit is truly alive in Makati, more parts of Ayala Avenue will be decorated with bright festive ornaments that are lit up to dazzle the Central Business District
November 3: Ayala Avenue Ceremonial Lighting of Christmas Decors
Ayala Land is lighting up Ayala Avenue to officially welcome the Christmas season. The ceremony is putting local heritage on the forefront as ornaments commonly found in holiday-decorated Filipino homes—like parols, stars, and capiz lights—adorn the Makati Central Business District. In the spirit of keeping cherished traditions and in line with Ayala Land’s advocacy for sustainability, the giant parols from last year’s decorations will remain to be the main element. The parol, after all, is the best way to symbolize the Filipino Christmas and is also a symbol of hope.
This year, to show that the Christmas spirit is truly alive in Makati, more parts of Ayala Avenue will be lit up. In addition to the decorations in front of Tower One, each bay along the whole stretch of Ayala Avenue will now have more ornaments. A gigantic parol installation by the courtyard of Ayala Triangle Gardens was also added to make it easier for those who would like to have their photo taken close to the decorations.
Drive down with your family and witness the magic as your littles ones gleam with joy at the sight of dazzling, giant parols.
The facade of Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Circuit Makati will be decorated with bright festive ornaments to further spread the holiday spirit
November 10: Festival of Lights at Ayala Triangle Gardens
After two years of virtual shows, the Festival of Lights is finally going back to Ayala Triangle Gardens LIVE starting November 10.
This year’s show will be a LIVE 360-degree experience. The light show that people have come to love through the years will still be there. Conceptualized by Director Ohm David and Lighting Designer Sueyen Austero, the familiar dancing string lights and magical laser lights with floating shapes will remain, but in addition, a gigantic 3D animated video will be projected on the canopy façade at the Ayala Triangle Gardens courtyard. The 3D projection, created in collaboration with Kroma and Acid House, will begin the show with a fun and magical introduction to the actual Light Show.
Three musical medleys with a fresh, new take were composed to accompany the show. The first is an orchestral rendition by the Manila Symphony Orchestra, followed by a TikTok inspired rendition – a collaboration among composers Tris Suguitan, Jazz Nicolas and Mikey Amistoso, and finally a chorale rendition by musical composer Jazz Nicolas. The chorale medley features the angelic voices of the Pembo Elementary School children’s choir.
December 2 to 31: Christmas market at Ayala Triangle Gardens
Looking for something new this season? Ayala Land partnered with the French Embassy to put up a one-of-a-kind Christmas Market at Ayala Triangle Gardens. Inspired by the Marche de Noele Christmas market in Paris, Lille, and Starsboug, visitors will be transported to a new kind of atmosphere that merges two cultures: French and Filipino. The Christmas market will feature French restaurants and products, as well as Filipino artisanal goods.
Come by on the launch date, December 2, to catch attractions you wouldn’t want to miss, including performances by French and Philippine children’s choirs, and Carnivale acrobats roaming around ATG!
December 15 to 23: Simbang Gabi at Ayala Triangle Gardens
Christmas traditions can’t be complete without Simbang Gabi. Ayala Land is hosting the gathering of devout Makatizens from December 15 to 23 at Ayala Triangle Gardens. All visitors are also invited to watch the Philippine Youth Symphonic Band perform live at the opening night, December 15, as they commemorate the meaning and purpose of the season.
The Manila Symphony Orchestra composed an orchestral rendition of the Festival of Lights 2022 medley
December 20 to 22: Christmas Holiday Concert at Circuit Makati
What’s more, Ayala Land makes Christmas happen at the Makati-based destination known for entertainment and arts—Circuit Makati. The Samsung Performing Arts Theater is hosting the Christmas Holiday Concert at Circuit Makati featuring performances by the Manila Symphony Orchestra and Steps Dance Studio among many others.
Finally, a bigger and brighter Christmas is here! Feel the warmth, feel the love, on-ground and face-to-face as Ayala Land makes Christmas happen this 2022 and beyond.
For more updates visit Ayala Land at www.ayalaland.com.ph and via social media on Facebook @officialayalaland and Instagram @ayalaland; as well as Make It Makati on Facebook and Instagram @makeitmakati. #MakeItMakati
Taylor Russell is nominated for Outstanding Lead Performance, while Mark Rylance scored an Outstanding Supporting Performance nomination. Russell and Rylance play society outcasts who approach their otherness in completely opposite ways. (Starting last year, the acting categories in Gotham Awards has been gender-neutral.)
Photo Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures
The Gotham Awards, one of the leading honors for independent film and television, provides early acknowledgement to groundbreaking independent films and television series. Selected by distinguished juries and presented in New York City, the home of independent film, the Gotham Awards are the first honors of the film awards season. The 2022 Gotham Awards Ceremony will be held live and in person November 28.
Photo Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures
Previously, “Bones and All” was recognized in the recent 79th Venice Film Festival where it won the Silver Lion for Best Director Award for Luca Guadagnino and the Marcello Mastroianni Award for Best Young Actress for Taylor Russell.
Photo Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures
In “Bones and All,” first love finds Maren (Taylor Russell), a young woman learning how to survive on the margins of society, and Lee (Timothee Chalamet), an intense and disenfranchised drifter, as they meet and join together for a thousand-mile odyssey that takes them through the back roads, hidden passages, and trap doors of Ronald Reagan’s America. But despite their best efforts, all roads lead back to their terrifying pasts and a final stand that will determine whether their love can survive their otherness.
Trailer Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures
Directed by Luca Guadagnino, “Bones and All” stars Taylor Russell (“Escape Room”), Timothée Chalamet (“Dune”) and Mark Rylance (“Dunkirk”). Based on the novel by Camille DeAngelis, screenplay by David Kajganich.
Only in cinemas across the Philippines starting November 23, “Bones and All” is distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company. Join the conversation online and use the hashtag #BonesAndAll
Every Pinoy across the country can now easily show pride in who they are and express their love for everything Pinoy in this new collection from the country’s number one fast food chain Jollibee and leading clothing and lifestyle brand Bench.
Jollibee endorser Francine Diaz proudly shows off the limited-edition Love Pinoy shirts from Bench and Jollibee
The collection consists of 4 designs, with 2 designs each exclusively available at Jollibee stores and Bench official retail and online stores. The shirts available in Jollibee come in different styles in red or white, with the “Love Pinoy” statement present on both designs. This is seen more prominently at the back of the red shirt, while the Jollibee mascot is featured at the front of the white shirt so Pinoys from all walks of life can have different styling options to choose from.
Jollibee customers can get their own Bench x Jollibee Love Pinoy shirt for only P455 when they order any Jollibee food item via Dine-in, Take Out, Drive-Thru, and Delivery in participating Jollibee stores nationwide from October 30 to November 4, 2022. Those who would love to get first dibs on the shirts can also get their own as early as October 29, exclusively via the Jollibee Delivery App.
To promote the collection, both Jollibee and Bench tapped its common endorser, Francine Diaz, to be the main face of the campaign. Back in June, Francine was also among the young artists featured in Jollibee’s Independence Day campaign, making her the perfect choice to embody the ‘Love Pinoy’ messaging.
Don’t miss this chance to proclaim your love for all things Pinoy and collect all 4 designs of the limited-edition shirts from Bench and Jollibee! For more info and updates, follow Jollibee on Facebook at facebook.com/JollibeePhilippines, and on Twitter, Instagram, TikTok at @Jollibee.
This alarming rate is most likely caused by low health literacy and gendered socio-cultural pressures including the absence of organized national screening programs. Fortunately, early detection of symptoms has helped patients with a 90% survival rate through immediate treatment and medication.
This is why every year during October, the world observes Breast Cancer Awareness Month to encourage more people to know more about this indiscriminate disease and be more proactive in regular self-checks that can help detect preliminary symptoms.
Global beauty brand Avon has been one of the most prominent brands who supports this cause, now marking three decades of being at the forefront on the fight against the disease since launching the Breast Cancer Crusade in UK in 1992.
Through the support of over five million Representatives worldwide, associates, customers and the Avon Foundation for Women, the beauty brand has donated more than US$947 million to breast cancer-related causes, educated over 180 million people about the disease, and funded screenings for approximately 16.6 million women over the last three decades.
NORMAL FOR ME
This year, Avon continues this worthy cause with a global campaign encouraging everyone to discover what’s #NormalForMe by asking themselves: what three words best describe their boobs?
The campaign invites women to know their normal by coming up with three words according to how their breasts usually look and feel and share those three words and the initiative to inspire others to also regularly check themselves. Knowing one’s normal can prevent potentially life-threatening changes that can lead to Breast Cancer.
In partnership with Philippine Cancer Society and to make sure this advocacy is internally practiced, Avon encouraged their local Avon Representatives to avail the free clinical breast examinations at select branches—October 17 at Taft/San Fernando, October 21 at Shaw Blvd and Batangas, and October 31 at Cebu and Davao. Associates were also motivated to get free breast checkups at the Avon Head Office at Makati on October 19 and 20.
Finally, Avon extends this advocacy to a larger network and invites everyone to pink it up by supporting products and services from Avon and partner brands to raise awareness and raise funds on behalf of the Philippine Cancer Society.
The public may also donate any amount directly via GCash by scanning the QR. Interested parties can also participate in the fundraiser through various partners:
· Live Love Party. The public was encouraged to join a Self-Check Zumba Dance Party atSM By the Bay last October 22 with minimum donation of PhP50.
“For the last 30 years, we’ve committed to this cause to raise funds and awareness to help more women to join the initiative to battle Breast Cancer not just for themselves, but also for their loved ones,” shares AvonHead of Communications for Philippines & APAC, Marion Limlengco. “This is why we’ll always push for everyone to know the signs, know the risks, and know how to take action because early detection will help save lives.”
All proceeds will be donated to Avon’s partner beneficiary, the Philippine Cancer Society, who is also offering consultation should you spot a lump or need more help in screening your breasts and pecs.
For more information about Avon’s #NormalForMe campaign please visit bit.ly/avonbreastcancerpromise. Follow Avon Philippines on Facebook and Instagram for more updates and shop your favorite Avon products at www.avonshop.ph or contact your local Avon Representative.
Spotify’s launches its very own house of audio horrors, the Takot Muna playlist. Lock the doors, and press play to a selection of local jump scares.
From a vivid childhood memory of one’s first supernatural encounter, to a deep-dive into the origins of local customs on the fear of aswangs, and even ghost stories from listeners themselves, there’s an episode for every horror enthusiast and brave soul.
Look closely (and behind you) if you dare
In Spotify Exclusive Creepsilog, dare yourself and a friend or two to join creators Gideon Mendoza and Glenn Tabajeros in a video podcast examining 13 disturbing photographs and the tragic origins of each image.
With the kapitanas of Wag Kang Lilingon, delve into hypothetical situations, such as if an alien that’s about to abduct you resembles BTS member Jimin, or other scenarios will make you second-guess mundane situations. This chilling evening is best enjoyed in a quiet room with occasional peering over one’s shoulder.
Gather ‘round the virtual campfire
In Philippine Campfire Stories, listen to a collection of native mysteries, such as those surrounding locales–like a mythical creature featured in Dungeons and Dragons but was already chronicled in detail in Sulu circa 1986.
New Swiftie content that you can sink your teeth into!
To celebrate the release of Midnights, Spotify and Taylor Swift want to share more with Spotify’s listeners.
Listeners around the world have spent many a midnight with Taylor Swift. Through life’s triumphs, celebrations, and hardships, Taylor’s music and lyrics have always been a source of comfort when the clock strikes 12 and beyond.
Fans will be able to get a sneak peek each day and start to learn the lyrics of the album. Additionally, Taylor will be sharing clips about Midnights on the mobile-only pre-save page each night along with the lyric reveals.
Popular online website The Happy Station recently opened its first brick-and-mortar store to cater to more arts and crafts enthusiasts in the Philippines.
Located at the Santolan Town Plaza, The Happy Station is a one-stop shop for crafters, filled with everything and anything they need to create and make their customized crafts.
An array of essential crafters’ tools are readily available — from cutting mats and blades to pens and markers; it’s really the perfect place for crafters to bring their customizing and DIY crafts to the next level.
Holding pride of place are the various Cricut machines, as The Happy Station is owned by Happy Creative Ventures, Inc., the sole and official distributor of Cricut products and accessories in the country. This company, under Xarion Industries which has 20 years of experience in various industries, has made it its mission to bring crafting to the next level, thus helping ensure that the world-class Cricut machines are made available in the country for crafters to use and enjoy.
According to Cricut®’s website, the smart cutting machines work with an easy-to-use app that enables crafters to design and personalize almost anything, from cards and mugs to shirts and just about any everyday item.
Aside from Cricut®, The Happy Station carries top-of-the-line equipment from renowned brands sought after by crafters, including Flux laser cutters, Epson sublimation printers, other specialized printers, Hansol inks, and the Minc foiling machine.
Die-cutters, laser cutters, heat presses, foil applicators, including printers and inks for stickers, packaging, and t-shirt printers are also available.
“After our collective experience working in various industries, we now ventured into the crafting world via distributing a vast array of crafting products and tools from leading brands in the field,” shared Catherine Dy, owner of The Happy Station. “We believe everyone has a creative spirit and we want to get them inspired by seeing what’s possible by using the machines here as well as seeing the various tools and equipment available.”
The Happy Station will definitely be a happy destination not just for serious crafters. Beginners who want to get into crafting, or those who want to build a small business selling customizable gift items will find the store the perfect place to get everything they need to get started.
Visit The Happy Station at the 3rd Floor RS 305 Santolan Town Plaza, Col Bonny Serrano Ave., San Juan City. You can also check out their website at https://thehappystation.com.ph/ or follow @thehappystationph on Instagram.
The progressive urban brand 0917, through offering tech-driven products and retail merchandise, is able to give consumers new experiences that bridge their online and offline lives. Aside from offering high quality products in technology and fashion, 0917 also focuses on empowering individuals to pursue their passions, cultivate self-expression, and nurture their life connections.
While 0917 can trace its roots back to Globe, it has since expanded and come into its own, becoming an advocate for individuals to seek and chase their passions. 0917 is an extension of one’s personality, which seeks to encourage individuals to express things that they truly care about, whether it’s music, travel, arts, entertainment and self-expression while nurturing connections to bridge the gap between their lives offline and online.
“We believe that 0917 can be the brand that represents our digital lifestyle,” says Ms. Gladys Rojas, Head of 0917 Lifestyle.
Among the products offered by 0917 are basic gadgets for everyday living, portable tech for people on the go, and upgraded gadgets catering to professionals and casual gamers. Aside from devices, 0917 also offers apparel, from collections under the 0917 house brand to collaborations made with top partners and talented artists. 0917 has already collaborated with some of the world’s most recognizable brands like SM Entertainment, Disney, Marvel, Nickelodeon, MTV, and more.
To make their products more accessible for their consumers, 0917 has recently opened an independent pop up store in Bonifacio High Street, Taguig. Aside from the experiential retail store, the products are also available on 0917lifestyle.com, Shopee, Lazada, Zalora, Globe stores, and other retail channels that the brand continues to open. 0917 has also tapped brand ambassadors to represent their different passion points, namely: model, actress, and host Lauren Reid for Fashion, DJ Mike Lavarez for Music, photographer Andrei Suleik for Art and Photography, and Renzie Barcelo, also known as Doc Z Gaming, for Streaming and Gaming.
“0917’s aim is to continuously identify and address the needs and wants of various subcultures. This gives us confidence that the products we provide really help bridge online and offline life,” says Mr. Rocko Ogsimer, Head of Marketing for 0917 Lifestyle.
0917 Lifestyle also affirms its connections with art, design, and creativity while staying true to their roots with the launch of its newest collection: 0917 Connected. The collection aims to bridge the gap between an individual’s online and offline life, a nod to the idea of connection and a celebration of evolution. This collection returns the brand to its roots while also introducing new variations and opening new directions.
“0917 Connected is an ode to our evolution from an analog to a digital lifestyle, something that we want to show is an integral part of 0917’s core being,” says Mr. Heinritzh Sales, Head of Creatives for 0917 Lifestyle. For more information about 0917 Lifestyle, visit their pages on Facebook,Instagram,Tiktok, Twitter and use their official hashtag #0917lifestyle #WeAre0917.
Every holiday season Starbucks effortlessly brings people together with their highly-anticipated and well-loved Starbucks Traditions collection. But this year, there’s more than just the collections to celebrate, as the brand celebrates 25 years of filling our days with more than just coffee in the Philippines.
#Fillitforward this Holiday
“The holidays are an exciting time for us all at Starbucks, and for our customers who celebrate with us,” shared Jamie Silva, Senior Manager for Marketing, Digital Customer Experience & Loyalty at Starbucks Philippines.
“For our 25th-year celebration, we pay homage to our partners (employees) and customers who have grown with us and have opened up opportunities to touch the lives of local communities.”
The brand released a series of videos based on real-life anecdotes. Each persona represents the communities Starbucks Philippines has built over the years, and where featured partner and customers share how the brand has and continues to fill their days forward.
Watch these videos through *Starbucks Philippines’ official social media channels:
Mark, Collector
Mark has been a collector of Starbucks planners for almost a decade. Because he loves coffee so much, he redeems multiple planners every year and shares it with friends and family.
Here’s Mark’s first reaction upon seeing the 2023 Starbucks Traditions Planner with Organizer:
Annika Yanez, a sought-after filmmaker and director, loves capturing through the lens of her camera. She starts her day with a lot of coffee and understands the role in being kind to the planet with reusable tumblers.
Get to know Annika and hear what she thinks of the 2023 Starbucks Traditions Cold Cup on our social media channels in the next coming days.
Dianne, Starbucks Partner for 6 years
Dianne is a 6-year Starbucks partner who believes being a barista is more than just making the perfect cup of coffee. It’s about connecting with customers every day and filling their days with warmth and positivity.
Listen to Dianne share how it is to be a partner while she peeks into the 2023 Starbucks Traditions Tumbler in the next coming days.
2023 Starbucks Traditions
Starbucks is proud to showcase their 2023 Starbucks Traditions collection! This year’s collection showcases a sophisticated new look that gives homage to Starbucks’ famous Siren, but with thoughtful details that celebrate the brand’s silver anniversary. Customers have their choice among two (2) limited-edition planners with organizer designs, a classic cold cup, and a durable stainless-steel tumbler.
Perfect to jot down inspiring thoughts and plan your days, the two 2023 Starbucks Traditions Planner with Organizer options come in a premium ring binder notebook format with a matching pen and cover. An ode to the Siren and a visible manifestation of Starbucks Philippines’ 25th anniversary, this year’s edition features a sleek Siren tail design and is available in two elegant colors — Champagne and Black.
The leather cover features both a pocket and pouch to store your files (or Starbucks cards!), and the plush material is accentuated with gold hardware. The ring bind style allows for the Planner with Organizer to be used well beyond 2023.
Inside, the beautifully illustrated pages feature 12 monthly special artworks highlighting inspiring quotes to help you welcome each month on a great note.
Taking its cue from the success of last year’s sets, Starbucks wanted to bring back multiple options for its customers who love using reusable vessels. This year’s line-up includes a 15 oz. Steel Tumbler and 22 oz. Cold Cup featuring a similar Siren design as the Planners.
From November 2, 2022 to January 2, 2023, customers will earn a sticker for every purchase of a Tall, Grande, or Venti handcrafted beverage. One (1) Reward Voucher can automatically be redeemed every eighteen (18) stickers collected. For easy tracking of stickers, opt-in through the Starbucks App and join using an e-Promo Card.
For those shopping for their Christmas gifts online, here’s some good news. A registered Starbucks Rewards member with a linked Lazada Philippines account will automatically earn one (1) Reward Voucher on the Starbucks PH app e-Promo card for every P5,000 purchase in a single receipt after 7 days from successful delivery.
You can collect all four options from this year’s line-up to take good coffee and the holiday cheer wherever you are! Visit starbuckstraditions.ph to learn more.
Come in your spookiest, strangest, oddest costume, scare everyone out of their wits and win special prizes!
It’s one cool, fun party on October 31 at 7 pm. Dance, swing, sway and sing along with DJ Eera Amor and Blue Grass Band at Hard Rock Cafe Manila and with Progeny and Innervoices at Hard Rock Cafe Makati. These exceptional performers are out to give you the ultimate in live entertainment.
Door charge is P500 that comes with a complimentary beverage perfect to pair with orders of burgers, wings, and more.
To book a table at Hard Rock Cafe Manila call +632-89909809; at Hard Rock Cafe Makati, call +632-79003353.
