Wake Up with Jim and Saab’ is joining ANIMA Podcasts beginning February 2024
Real-life couple and podparents Jim Bacarro and Saab Magalona started one of the country’s first local podcasts in 2018
Wake Up With Jim and Saab, one of the country’ first local podcasts that started in 2018, enters 2024 with a new season and new home.
Hosted by real-life couple and podparents Jim Bacarro and Saab Magalona, the long-running podcast is officially joining ANIMA Podcasts’ slate starting February.
“This new year, our podcast found a new home under ANIMA Podcasts, and we’re super excited about it! The best part about this new partnership is getting the ANIMA Podcast team’s full support in keeping our episodes as authentic as possible,” Jim and Saab shared in a statement.
Wake Up With Jim and Saab’s engaged community of Podkids need not worry about this change as the podcast will deliver the same well-loved content that it has for years. “Thanks for being part of this awesome journey with us, and we hope you’re ready for more fun episodes ahead,” the couple said.
Through the years, the podcast has delivered a wide range of content that hits the spot— whether it’s a retelling of an entire day spent eating froyo and consulting with a chiropractor to practical tips on how to deal when you’re having a panic attack. This ability to create conversations around the momentous and the mundane, coupled with the hosts’ genuine connection and gift of gab, make up the podcast’s charm.
Mel Lozano-Alcaraz, Head of ANIMA Podcasts, shared: “We are happy to welcome Wake Up With Jim and Saab to ANIMA Podcasts. The show, its hosts, and their engaging kwentuhan resonate with our goal of creating meaningful and insightful conversations on parenting, family, pop culture and everyday life. This partnership marks an exciting chapter for us, as we eagerly anticipate the synergies and creative possibilities that will unfold.”
Follow Wake Up With Jim and Saab on Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts and on Instagram, too.
The new year 2024 is here, and now is the best time to leap into new opportunities, new goals, and new resolutions! Coca-Cola Philippines is launching its #CokeZeroExcuses Promo, allowing Filipinos to win exciting prizes – and more when you join.
The #CokeZeroExcuses Promo is more than just a catchy hashtag. It’s your chance to stop dreaming and to start doing by showing the world—and yourself—that you’re capable of speaking for yourself and making your dreams come true. Social media is buzzing with users “manifesting” their goals, turning wishes into reality through positive thinking and action. Coca-Cola Zero Sugar embraces this trend and encourages you to do the same, fostering a spirit of self-discovery, expression, and achievement throughout 2024.
Participating in the #CokeZeroExcuses promo is as easy as cracking open a Coke Zero Sugar bottle or can! Simply upload a 15-second video or photo of your 2024 goals with a Coke Zero Sugar product in sight. In the caption, write your 2024 goals, add the official hashtag #CokeZeroExcuses, and tag @cocacolaph on Facebook or Instagram. Please make sure you make your post public. The best part is you will have a chance to win any of the exciting prizes to be given away:
Weekly Minor Prizes:
PHP 5,000 GCash Credits
Polaroid Camera (Fujifilm Instax Mini 12)
Fitness Watch (Oppo Band B1)
Major prizes:
PHP 100,000 Gcash Credits
iPhone 15 Pro Max (256GB)
The promo runs from January 8 to March 24, 2024, 11:59 P.M. Hurry and don’t miss out on the amazing prizes up for grabs with the #CokeZeroExcuses Promo! Check this link to see the full promo mechanics: https://cokeurl.com/CokeZeroExcusesPromo.
The excitement doesn’t stop online! Coke Zero Sugar is taking over 2024, starting with a bang at the Bonifacio High Street Activity Center. On select dates in January, people can enjoy epic performances, thrilling activities, and the chance to win epic prizes. And get ready, because Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray and star Julie Anne San Jose are coming your way on January 27!
We kicked off this series of immersive experiences with Kyle Echarri and Darren Espanto last January 13-14. The two amazing artists serenaded fans with the hottest songs while bopping to the coolest dance moves! Kyle sang his song Dyosa, and Darren performed and invited fans to dance to the tune of his hit Bibitaw Na. The two artists also shared their manifestations for 2024 with Kyle saying that he is manifesting “for a good year this year and more music,” while Darren manifested “Zero Excuses to have a more positive mindset.”
Together with Mark Dee, Senior Marketing Director, Coca-Cola Philippines, Kyle and Darren led the #CokeZeroExcuses toast to manifest for the best 2024!
Don’t miss out on the action. Keep up with all the surprises planned for the #CokeZeroExcuses promo.
Together, let’s face 2024 with zero excuses and infinite possibilities! Make sure to follow the official pages of Coca-Cola on Facebook and Instagram pages to stay tuned for the #CokeZeroExcuses Promo.
Starbucks Philippines, in its pursuit of becoming a resource-positive company, reiterates its commitment to giving back more to the planet than it takes. As the company celebrates its 25th year milestone, a series of impactful initiatives reflects its dedication to creating positive change in the communities it serves.
Prioritizing Well-being and Sustainability
President Noey Lopez emphasizes the guiding principle driving Starbucks Philippines: prioritizing the well-being of customers and giving more than what is taken from the planet. It’s not just a promise; it’s a commitment to a sustainable future. “Our local initiatives align with the company’s promise to contribute positively to our communities and have also evolved to reflect our commitment to sustainable practices through our partners (employees) and customers. As we navigate towards a more sustainable future, our guiding principle remains unwavering — by prioritizing the well-being of our customers and giving more than what we take from our planet.”
Social Impact Initiatives: Empowering Communities
Achieving Gender Pay Equity Since 2021, Starbucks Philippines has achieved a remarkable milestone by ensuring 100% gender pay equity. The commitment to inclusion and diversity has created opportunities for all partners, with female employees now representing more than 50% of the Starbucks Philippines workforce.
Community Store for Youth Education
In September 2023, Starbucks Philippines opened its inaugural Community Store in partnership with the Young Focus Foundation and AHA! Learning Center. The Abad Santos Tondo Community Store focuses on advancing youth education, with a portion of every purchase contributing to scholarships and after-school programs.
Starbucks Foodshare Program
Launched in March 2022 in collaboration with the Philippine Food Bank Foundation and Grab Philippines, the Starbucks Foodshare program has become a nationwide effort. The company has donated close to 1 million rescuable food items to communities in need, addressing food waste while supporting those facing hunger.
Providing Clean Water and Meals
Through partnerships with The Starbucks Foundation and Planet Water Foundation, Starbucks Philippines has provided access to clean, safe drinking water and hygiene education to over 7,000 people across Luzon. The construction of a fourth AquaTower in San Antonio Central School, Quezon, in April 2023, marks another milestone.
Global Community Impact Grants
Starbucks Philippines, through Global Community Impact Grants awarded by The Starbucks Foundation, strengthens its partnership with Gawad Kalinga’s Kusina ng Kalinga. This collaboration has served close to 250,000 meals to 1,800 children in Metro Manila, Cebu, Camarines Sur, and Bohol, making a meaningful difference in the fight against hunger.
In a monumental step towards environmental sustainability, Starbucks Philippines opened its first two Greener Stores this year. Located at The Shops at Ayala Triangle Garden and One Ayala, these stores are designed to reduce carbon emissions, minimize water usage, and cut landfill waste.
Plastic Credit Exchange Partnership
Actively involved in waste management, Starbucks Philippines, in partnership with the Plastic Credit Exchange, has offset over 200 metric tons of plastic as of 2023. The Aling Tindera Site in Palatiw, Pasig, serves as a livelihood center and a plastic waste collection hub.
Ongoing Waste Reduction Efforts
As part of ongoing waste reduction efforts, Starbucks Philippines has transitioned to 100% paper straws in all stores and for delivery orders. The shift from bubble wrap to carton boxes and carton filters in packages from their official Lazada store since 2021 further reinforces the commitment to reducing environmental impact.
Encouraging Reusables: Discounts and Rewards
Customers are encouraged to bring their reusable cups or tumblers, enjoying a Php 10 discount on handcrafted drinks. During the Starbucks Global Month of Good in April, Rewards members received 5 Bonus Stars for choosing reusables.
Looking for a cool space to hold your next community gathering or workshop? Robinsons Malls has got you covered with their Co-Events Spaces. These venues are equipped with basic amenities and are perfect for seminars, workshops, group study, business meetings, panel discussions, auditions, band practices, dance rehearsals, exhibitions, fandom meetups, and other small-size events, and they’re totally free!
The Co-Events Spaces are clean, well-lit, and have complete facilities. Plus, they are located within Robinsons Metroeast, Robinsons Naga, Robinsons Galleria Ortigas, Robinsons Las Pinas, Robinsons Imus, Robinsons Gen Trias and Robinsons Dasmarinas, so they’re super easy to get to.
Here’s how to book your spot! First is download and register on the RMalls+ App, head to the RVoucher section, and look for the Co-Events Space voucher. You need to reserve at least three days before your activity and keep in mind that there will be a maximum guests allowed per mall locations.
Don’t miss this excellent opportunity to hold your next event at Robinsons Malls’ Co-Events Spaces! For more information, check out Robinsons Malls’ Official Website: www.robinsonsmalls.com
GCash, the country’s leading finance super app, brings a powerful start to 2024 with the launch of its newest endorser — international fashion icon, Heart Evangelista-Escudero.
The unveiling of Heart as the new face of GCash was announced together with the release of the brand’s latest digital film, set to take over our feeds. The film not only showcases Heart’s exciting partnership with GCash, but also demonstrates how GCash has made its way into her heart, being her go-to super app for easy, safe & secure transactions, whether it be online, in-store, or even abroad.
Inspired by her travels and experiences, Heart shared her anecdotes of the moments GCash saved her in times of need –from receiving a sweet gift from her loved ones by using the app’s Send Money feature, to shopping online for cute trinkets for her dog, Panda. She even talked about how the ease of the Scan to Pay feature when it comes to simple things, like buying kwek-kwek when the craving strikes, and of course, who could forget her delighted reaction when she successfully used her GCash Card for the first time to pay for a coffee run in Paris!
“For me, GCash has been a game changer. You can use it for so many things, and literally EVERYWHERE! From my local cravings, shopping finds and even now that I’m getting ready to head out for Fashion Week season, there is no limit when I’ve got my GCash with me. Ang galing diba? ” – Heart Evangelista-Escudero
Much like Heart, there are so many new things to discover and love about GCash! Apart from being able to send and receive money for FREE, and get free vouchers and discounts when paying online, thanks to the GCash Card, its users can transact seamlessly in over 200 countries — with lower foreign exchange rates vs. competitors, it instantly became one of her travel essentials!
The different scenes showcased in the brand’s new film were inspired by the star’s day-to-day life. In fact, Heart was heavily involved in crafting the script, and dressing herself in some of her signature pieces from her personal wardrobe, some of which we’ve seen all over social media!
“In my Heart, GCash is the best way to pay”
Quoting Heart’s ending line in her newest film, GCash invites its users to enjoy the best things life has to offer in the most convenient and secure way possible.
“Heart was really the perfect, and easy, choice for us when it came to developing this campaign. She gave a mountain’s worth of ideas from the very first time we met her and the team was left inspired! Her attention to every detail was key for us to develop a material that was unique but also very personal to her. We loved the way she was able to share her personal experiences with us in highlighting how her GCash has made her transactions easier, not only in the Philippines but all over the globe. ” – Neil Trinidad, GCash Chief Marketing Officer
GCash, the country’s no. 1 finance super app continues its mission to empower Filipinos to move towards financial progress. Through this new collaboration between Heart and GCash, users can only expect more to come in 2024 as they continue to open doors to a brighter future for all Filipinos, so that they too can say that GCash is the best way to pay.
Watch the full GCash short film produced with Heart through the official GCash page @gcashofficial on Facebook and YouTube.
Regus, a globally renowned brand for flexible workspaces, is set to open its first facility at Doña Elena Tower, a bustling 11-storey building in Sta. Mesa, Manila. Regus at Doña Elena Tower will offer a range of flexible spaces, including private office spaces, coworking areas, virtual offices, and well-equipped meeting rooms, all designed for comfort and productivity. Regus is the perfect choice for professionals who are looking for a productive workspace solution in a prime location.
Doña Elena Tower is one of the most highly anticipated real estate projects in Manila, particularly for its suitability as a hybrid workspace. Its prime location is a standout feature, with close proximity to the entry and exit ramps of Skyway Stage 3 and seamless connectivity to the public transport system, linking EDSA through Shaw Boulevard.
Doña Elena Tower is a modern and sustainable building that offers innovative features and specifications. The building offers spacious parking areas and high-security standards, making it a perfect environment for businesses to thrive. To ensure uninterrupted operations, the facility is installed with a dual 24/7 generator system that provides continuous power supply in case of emergencies and fiber optic-ready cabling that allows fast and reliable internet connectivity. On top of these innovative features, the tower is also EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) certified, and it meets the standards of excellence in energy and water efficiency, as well as reduced environmental impact. Apart from being the epitome of sustainable development, the building houses a mix of thriving industries such as banking, retail, restaurant, government agency, and more, creating a diverse and vibrant community.
Regus is a brand under the International Workplace Group (IWG) umbrella, which specializes in delivering flexible and professional workspaces. They will oversee the design and management of a premier shared office space within Doña Elena Tower in Santa Mesa, Manila. For over 30 years, Regus has fostered a global community of over 2.5 million members across 122 countries, assisting businesses in discovering the ideal workspace solutions for their teams.
Happy Coral Way Realty Corporation (HCWRC) and International Workplace Group (IWG) formalized their partnership on September 22, 2023, during a contract signing event at SPACES 29F World Plaza, 4th Avenue, BGC. The signing ceremony was attended by Larry Cochanco, Director of HCWRC and Fly Ace Corporation, and Frederick Ong, Senior Executive Vice President – Chief Operations Officer of Fly Ace Holdings, Inc. (FAHI). Representing IWG were Country Manager and Senior Vice President, Lars Wittig, and Head of Partnership Growth & Network Development, Rowena Natividad.
“We are excited about our collaboration with IWG on this project. With Doña Elena Tower as the future home of Regus, we are confident that we can provide flexible and comfortable workspaces that will boost efficiency and adaptability for hybrid work,” said Larry Cochanco, Director of Happy Coral Way Realty Corporation and Fly Ace Corporation.”
“This initiative aims to enable businesses to elevate their work environments while fostering adaptability for hybrid work setups. Our overarching objective is to provide Filipinos with all-inclusive, digitally-equipped, and inviting working spaces,” stated IWG Country Manager and Senior Vice President Lars Wittig.
After two decades of celebrating Philippine independent filmmaking, the Cultural Center of the Philippines and the Cinemalaya Foundation Inc. open the screens for submission to the Short Film Category of the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival 2024.
The deadline for submissions is on or before 6 pm on March 8, 2024.
The country’s biggest independent film competition is open to all Filipino filmmakers. Interested participants may submit a maximum of three (3) entries but only one (1) entry per proponent may be considered as a finalist.
Submitted entries must have been produced from March 3, 2023 to March 8, 2024. Short film entries that participated in other local and international festivals and competitions are qualified to join Cinemalaya. However, if an entry is submitted and is selected as a finalist in both the Cinemalaya and Gawad Alternatibo, the said entry will automatically be removed from the Gawad Alternatibo lineup, in favor of Cinemalaya.
Entries may be submitted ONLINE or OFFLINE. For online application, submit all requirements through https://forms.gle/gb4csK1rcDqFwnhs7 . Requirements include a duly completed entry form, synopsis in English, a brief resume with 2×2 photo/s of the filmmaker/s, and the final work in MP4 format, with violator/watermark (for screening purposes only) and properly labeled with title, production company, address and contact numbers, production date, director’s name, running time which should not exceed 20 minutes including credits.
For OFFLINE submission, send entries to the Film, Broadcast, and New Media Division office, located at the Cultural Center of the Philippines Annex Building, Vicente Sotto St., Pasay City.
For OFFLINE submission, film entry must be submitted on a thumb drive (USB), with the entry form, synopsis, and filmmaker’s profile. All must be submitted in a long brown envelope properly labeled with the proponent’s name, title of the film, and contact details.
The Cinemalaya Selection Committee will shortlist 10 film finalists which will be screened at the 2024 Cinemalaya Film Festival on August 2 to 11, and will have the chance to compete for the coveted Balanghai trophies.
Since 2005, Cinemalaya has been committed to the development and promotion of Philippine independent film. At its core, it provides an avenue for the production of cinematic works of Filipino independent filmmakers that boldly articulate and freely interpret the Filipino experience with fresh insight and artistic integrity. With its call for submissions for the 2024 short film competition, Cinemalaya continues to invigorate the Philippine film industry by developing a new breed of Filipino filmmakers.
For full mechanics, visit the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) and the Cinemalaya website (www.cinemalaya.org). Follow the official CCP and Cinemalaya social media accounts on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for more updates.
Are you ready to ring in 2024 with a bang? Globe is teaming up with Bonifacio Global City and the local government of Taguig for NYE AT THE 5TH – a street celebration that’s going to brighten your world.
Prepare to dive into a night of unforgettable fun on December 31 at the Globe Booth at Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre. As you step into this festive arena, feel the pulse of a community coming together, ready to set the stage for a truly fantastic year ahead.
A spectacular K-Pop performance
A stellar performance by one of K-Pop’s biggest groups is set to electrify the evening, which is why Globe KmmunityPH and Anything K-Pop Manila is teaming up once again to amp up the energy. Whether you’re a long-time stan or new to the scene, there is a diverse array of awesome activities designed to immerse you in the vibrant world of K-Pop.
Capture your moments at the Globe photobooth
Make your New Year’s Eve more memorable at the Globe photobooth. It’s the perfect spot to snap your festive OOTD, gather with loved ones for a group photo, and capture the spirit of the celebration.
Arcade fun with friends
Challenge your friends and test your skills at Globe’s arcade machines. It’s not just about winning; it’s about enjoying every playful moment and maybe even snagging some cool prizes.
Dance parties to keep you moving
Get ready to move and groove! Spontaneous dance parties are set to erupt, offering you a chance to dance your heart out. Mingle with fellow party-goers in these impromptu dance-offs and let the rhythm of the night take over.
Exclusive deals from 0917 Lifestyle
Fashion meets fandom with 0917 Lifestyle’s exclusive freebies and discounts on some of their most popular collections. Enjoy up to 50% off on shirts, accessories, and more. It’s the perfect opportunity to showcase your style and express your fandom.
Concert experience at the Globe booth
Experience the concert with added comfort at the Globe booth. This is your chance to enjoy the performance in a cozy setting, making your New Year’s Eve celebration even more special.
“Joining BGC and Taguig City in this celebration is our way of bringing people together and fueling their passion. We’re creating a vibrant space where fans can connect, and we’re excited to offer an experience that’s both fun and meaningful as we welcome the new year,” said Crisela Magpayo-Cervantes, Globe’s Vice President for Marketing Communications.
As the countdown to the New Year begins, don’t miss the chance to be part of this unforgettable celebration. Join Globe at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre on December 31 for a gathering of hearts and dreams, all united by the excitement for new beginnings.
This festive season, you can help the hungry even while on a shopping spree.
Globe and SMAC, SM’s customer loyalty program, are back with “Ibalik ang Sarap ng Pasko sa Hapag,” a campaign that turns your holiday shopping into a beacon of hope for those suffering from involuntary hunger. For every SMAC card purchased from December 15, 2023, to January 31, 2024, SMAC donates PHP50.00 to Globe’s Hapag Movement.
Every swipe of your SMAC card does more than just tally up your purchases. With each transaction, you also have the opportunity to help someone in need.
“When you choose to avail of a SMAC card, you’re embracing that holiday spirit beyond the usual. You’re joining a movement that feeds hope and joy to countless Filipino families affected by hunger. Each card is a pledge to make the season brighter for someone in need,” said Yoly Crisanto, Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer at Globe Group.
“In our second year of our partnership with Globe, our goal is to bring even more support to the Hapag Movement to make a greater impact and help more Filipinos in need. We believe there is no better way to celebrate the holidays than by sharing, and like last year, we are assured that our members will join forces with us in making this campaign a success,” said Jay Beltran, Head of Sales and Marketing, Digital Advantage Corporation (DAC).
The Hapag Movement aims to help 500,000 Filipinos experiencing involuntary hunger. Every point you donate through your SMAC card becomes a lifeline.
You may also contribute through various platforms, including GCash, credit card donations, or Rewards points via the GlobeOne app. This inclusivity means that anyone can join in this cause, amplifying the impact of the campaign.
In this season of joy and giving, your shopping choices have the power to transform lives. Your SMAC card is more than just a shopping companion. Every card purchase and every swipe counts towards a future where no table is empty, and no heart is hungry.
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 Ibarrathat 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
SIM registration
precinct finder
persona non grata
Nipah virus
War in Israel and Gaza
lato-lato
Typhoon Egay update
Taal Volcano update
Turkey earthquake
MoCa Farm
Sports
Lakers vs Warriors
Lakers vs Nuggets
FIBA World Cup
Miami vs Denver
Lakers vs Grizzlies
Suns vs Nuggets
Celtics vs 76ers
Heat vs Knicks
Golden State Warriors vs Kings
Ginebra vs Bay Area
Shows or Series
Duty After School
Maria Clara at Ibarra
Moving
The Glory
Twinkling Watermelon
King the Land
XO, Kitty
The Last of Us
My Lovely Liar
Strong Girl Nam-soon
Songs or Lyrics
Say You Won’t Let Go
ERE
Pasilyo
Uhaw
Lupang Hinirang English
Angels Like You
California King Bed
Rapstar
Raining In Manila
Jopay
Games
Blade Ball codes
Delta Executor
Soldier, Poet, or King quiz
Cosmic Values
Anime Adventures codes
Farlight
Choox Sega
Honkai: Star Rail
Minecraft 1.20
Project Slayers codes
Male Personalities
Ahn Bo-hyun
Mackenyu
Marco Gumabao
Taylor Lautner
Travis Kelce
Liam Hemsworth
David Licauco
Kyle Kuzma
Juan Karlos
Chen Zhe Yuan
Female Personalities
Katy Louise Saunders
Cristine Reyes
Millie Bobby Brown
Lee Da-in
Issa Pressman
Janna Dominguez
Bada Lee
Jenna Ortega
Emily Rudd
Isabel Santos
Movies
Oppenheimer
John Wick: Chapter 4
Barbie
Insidious: The Red Door
The Menu
Extraction 2
I Love Lizzy
Evil Dead Rise
Nowhere
Kill Boksoon
Farewells
Mike Enriquez
Joey Paras
Matthew Perry
Andrei Sison
Patrick Guzman
Mario Dumaual
John Regala
Michael Gambon
Park Soo Ryun
Tina Turner
Korean Series
Duty After School
Moving
The Glory
Twinkling Watermelon
King the Land
My Lovely Liar
Strong Girl Nam-soon
Alchemy of Souls
Island
A Time Called You
To see the full Year in Search 2023 list, click here.
