Hanabishi Launches “Cheers to HappyMess” Campaign with Online-Exclusive Freebies

Hanabishi Appliances has teamed up with kitchen and party essential brand Cheers to make cooking time more pleasurable and less hectic just in time for the holidays.

This festive cooperation between two trusted Filipino companies offers a free Cheers item with every purchase of select Hanabishi items from www.myhanabishi.com, Hanabishi TikTok Shop, and TikTok Live.

“As families prepare for the numerous parties and celebrations in the coming months, we at Hanabishi and our friends from Cheers would like to make it easier for everyone to enjoy their gatherings with family and friends. At Hanabishi, we have always aimed at providing Filipino households with practical and affordable solutions that will help them with their everyday needs. With Cheers, we’ve found a partner that shares our passion for making life in the kitchen simpler, cleaner, and more importantly, a lot more fun especially during the holidays. We encourage everyone to embrace the HappyMess of the holidays.” ~Cherish Ong-Chua, Hanabishi Appliances VP for Marketing and Finance

Enjoy Convenience and Savings

The appliances and their corresponding freebies are available until supplies last. The bundles include the following:

• Every Hanabishi Electric Oven or Griller purchase comes with a free Cheers Aluminum Foil.
• Every Hanabishi Microwave Oven or Air Fryer purchase comes with a free Cheers Baking Paper.
• Every Hanabishi Professional Stand Mixer or Cooker (Induction/Ceramic) comes with a free Cheers Cling Wrap.
• Every Hanabishi Commercial Blender or Pressure Cooker purchase comes with a Cheers Dishwashing Liquid (lemon or orange).
• Every Hanabishi Juice Blender purchase comes with a free Cheers Scrub Buddies.
• Every Hanabishi Sandwich Maker, Waffle Maker, or Panini Press purchase comes with a free Cheers Snack Bag.
• Every Hanabishi Refrigerator, Food Steamer, Hand Blender, or Toaster purchase comes with free Cheers Zipper Storage Bags.
• Every HASREF18INV Refrigerator purchase comes with a free Cheers Kitchen Towel.

To learn more about Hanabishi Appliances, visit www.myhanabishi.com. Follow Hanabishi and Cheers on their official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts.

Happy Skin Makes a Grand Entrance at SM City Grand Central

Filipinas have a new reason to smile at SM City Grand Central: soft-focus skin, weightless colors, and that unmistakable, radiant glow.  Happy Skin, the beloved domestic beauty brand that perfectly blends cosmetics and skincare, has officially opened its newest store, bringing its cult-favorite basics closer to the Northern Metro's busy, beauty-loving populace.

For years, Filipina women have faced a common challenge: choosing makeup that improves without damaging and skincare that produces results without breaking the bank.  Happy Skin cracked the code in 2013, and more than a decade later, it is still redefining local beauty with products that nourish skin as you wear them.  The brand's newest location at SM City Grand Central brings that promise even closer to beauty fans in the region.

The store reflects the brand's characteristic aesthetic: clean, modern, and spacious, with soft pink touches and warm neutrals that create a relaxing, welcoming ambiance.  But the true draw is the experience: a carefully selected playground of makeup and skincare imported from the world's beauty capitals, including Japan, Korea, and Taiwan, and all developed with skin-loving elements tailored to the Philippine environment and different Filipina skin tones.

Customers may now try Happy Skin's hallmark products, including the popular "Shut Up & Kiss Me" lippies and "Eye Am Here to Stay" gel eyeliner, as well as the celebrated weightless tints and hydrating skincare lines.  Each product is made with elements that nourish the skin while also providing effortless beauty, making it easier than ever for women to look and feel their best.

The inauguration of Happy Skin at SM City Grand Central reinforces the company's objective of making world-class beauty more accessible to women by providing them with products that seamlessly combine style and skincare. Happy Skin, with its fun packaging, simple formulae, and dedication to cruelty-free, skin-friendly cosmetics, continues to demonstrate that bright, healthy skin is always in style.

Visit SM City Grand Central and discover the perfect balance of glow and care that your skin will thank you.

Pru Life UK Strengthens Commitment to Inclusive Education with Adopt-a-Madrasah Rollout in CDO

Pru Life UK VP for Sustainability and Takaful head Maricel Estavillo (fourth from left) joins Madrasah principals and the Pru Life UK team for the distribution of IT assets to support learning in Muslim communities

Pru Life UK is expanding its Adopt-a-Madrasah campaign to Cagayan de Oro as part of its commitment to better support Mindanao's underprivileged Muslim communities.

Pru Life UK's Takaful journey includes empowering more Muslim communities through the Adopt-a-Madrasah program, which emphasizes the importance of financial security, technology upskilling, and climate and health readiness.  Pru Life UK was the first in the country to receive a Takaful (Islamic insurance) operator licence from the Insurance Commission.

“At Pru Life UK, we firmly believe that education is a powerful driver of change, which is why we, together with our partners, continue to strive to ensure opportunities are available to everyone. Through the expansion of the Adopt-a-Madrasah programme, we hope to broaden our impact by helping equip more Muslim communities with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to build sustainable futures—and to prove to them that they can count on us anytime.” ~Maricel Estavillo, Pru Life UK’s Sustainability and Takaful Head

The Adopt-a-Madrasah campaign concludes this year with the introduction in Cagayan de Oro.  The rollout builds on the program's successful implementation in Bangkal, Davao City, earlier this year, when three community Madaris received digital learning equipment in collaboration with Pru Life UK's circular economy partners, Humble Sustainability and LiteHaus International.

The Adopt-a-Madrasah program, piloted in 2024, included the donation of educational supplies, hygiene kits, and a creative session led by Pru Life UK staff and agent volunteers.

These activities are carried out in collaboration with local Muslim community leaders and government partners.  The project reinforces the company's purpose to be a trusted partner and defender for future generations, improving lives via education, empowerment, and sustainable development.

To learn more about Pru Life UK and its sustainability programmes, visit www.prulifeuk.com.ph

About Pru Life UK

Pru Life UK is the leading life insurer in the Philippines demonstrating its commitment to protect Filipinos’ financial future and well-being for every life, for every future.  

 

Established in 1996, Pru Life UK operates in over 200 branches and general agency offices in the Philippines, and holds the largest life insurance agency force of close to 38,000 licensed agents. 

  

Pru Life UK offers a wide range of tailored solutions that address the unique and evolving needs across demographics and life stages. These include life protection, health, accident and disability, and investment-linked insurance.   

Currently, Pru Life UK serves over 930,000 individual policyholders and more than 85,000 insured group members, and ranks first in New Business Annual Premium Equivalent* as of Q2 2025, according to the Insurance Commission.   

Pru Life UK is a subsidiary of Prudential plc, with a legacy of more than 175 –years of safeguarding the future of millions of families for this generation and generations to come.   

Pru Life UK is headquartered in 9/F Uptown Place Tower 1,1 East 11th Drive, Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its main customer center is located in G/F Cluster 2, Uptown Parade, Megaworld Blvd. corner 36th street Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its customer center contact details are: +63 (2) 88875433 (within Metro Manila) and 1-800-107785465 (for domestic toll-free via PLDT landline), email: contact.us@prulifeuk.com.ph. 

The PRU customer center processes customer concerns based on applicable timelines provided by the law. Visit www.prulifeuk.com.ph/en/contact-us/ for the list of its branches and more information. 

Pru Life UK is legally permitted to provide financial products or services in the Philippines as regulated by the Insurance Commission. 

The Insurance Commission’s head office is located in 1071 United Nations Avenue Ermita, Manila, Philippines. Their Cebu District office is located at Unit 17, Ground and Second Floors, The Gallery, Pope John Paul II Avenue, Barangay Kasambagan, Cebu City, while their Davao District office is in Door 2 & 3, 3rd Floor of YAP Building Quimpo Boulevard, Ecoland, Davao City. Visit www.insurance.gov.ph/contact-us/ for more information. 

Comfort in Every Bite: Snack Pairings for the Holiday Season

Between holiday shopping, last-minute get-togethers, and a never-ending playlist of Christmas tunes, the days can blur in the greatest manner possible. Fortunately, there is always time for small moments of solace, such as those provided by your favorite snacks. Whether it's a cold morning breeze, a rainy afternoon, or a relaxing night in, these modest moments call for large flavors and comfortable bites that make the season even more delightful.

This is your cue to grab your favorite snack pairings—sweet and savory duos to suit any Ber month mood. Here's how some popular Universal Robina Corporation (URC) products may keep you company during the rush and make every mouthful feel like home.

For rainy afternoons: Warm and hearty with a crunchy twist

When the skies turn gray and the rain starts to fall, a cup of hot Nissin Cup Noodles hits the spot.  Its fragrant broth and silky noodles provide warmth and comfort with every drink.  Pair it with a bag of Nova or Vcut for an additional crunch—nothing matches the combination of substantial noodles and a satisfying, savory companion.

For movie nights or family bonding: Sweet meets savory

Nothing says cozy bonding time like a nice movie and accompanying snack spread. Cloud 9's gooey caramel and chocolate bliss makes for a delicious sweet delight. Then, to balance things out, serve Granny Goose Tortillos—a savory, crunchy contrast that will have everyone wanting more.  It's the kind of combo that makes family gatherings twice as enjoyable.

For afternoon merienda or study breaks: Flavorful comfort food

When you need something to get you through a hectic afternoon or to keep you company while studying, opt for a hearty mix.  A bowl of Payless Instant Mami provides the comfort and satisfaction of home-cooked merienda, while a pack of Presto Peanut Butter Sandwich adds a nutty sweetness that hits the spot.  It's a pair that can fill you up—both physically and mentally.

The perfect finish: sweet, creamy, and refreshingly cool

After dinner, enjoy the sweet and chocolatey richness of Cream-O cookies—just enough to satisfy your dessert desires. Then conclude with a Maxx candy for a cold, fruity finish that will leave you refreshed and ready to relax.

Whether it's slurping noodles on a rainy afternoon, matching sweet and savory goodies for a nice movie night, or indulging in a fruity-fresh candy after dinner, these simple snack rituals may add warmth and delight to every day during the frantic season leading up to the busy holidays.

Universal Robina Corporation (URC) produces iconic brands such as Jack ‘n Jill Piattos, Cloud 9, Maxx candy, Cream-O, Payless, C2 Cool and Clean, and Great Taste coffee, which have been part of Filipinos’ lives for decades. Known for its bold flavors, Mang Juan delivers top-quality snacking with its Kropek line—made to be crisp, flavorful, and budget-friendly, making it a go-to choice for Filipino snack fans. To learn more about URC, visit its website, Facebook Page and TikTok Account.

Quick Bites, Conti's Delights at SM Bulacan Malls

An OG has come at SM Bulacan malls, and we're all for it.  Conti's Take Out Nooks is now selling freshly baked cakes and other delicious treats at SM City Baliwag and SM Center Pulilan.

Conti's Take Out Nooks have now opened on the ground level of SM City Baliwag and SM Center Pulilan, allowing shoppers to conveniently take home breads, pies, pastries, cookies, frozen ready-to-eat foods, and, of course, legendary cakes.

Whether it's a celebration, a gift, or simply a little 'pick-me-up', Conti's is only a few steps away to brighten your day. For food alerts and promos, check out https://www.facebook.com/smbaliwag and https://www.facebook.com/smcenterpulilan.

What’s New: Explore Vietnam’s Cong Caphe & Korea’s Eat Pizza at SM City Marilao

Nothing can stop a curious foodie from trying new tastes and sensations. Food reigns supreme at SM City Marilao, with the mall welcoming Vietnam's Cong Caphe and Korea's Eat Pizza—two of the most recent additions to the mall's intriguing food vendors, both located in the West Wing Expansion.

First stop, Cong Caphe.  Jetsetters do not need to travel far because Vietnam's famed coffee is readily available at SM City Marilao. White Coffee, Pho Coffee with Salted Cream, Coconut Coffee, and Coconut Mung Bean are all highly praised. They also offer local Vietnamese drinks such as Hanoi Dracontomelon with Soda, interesting selection of high mountain teas, and authentic Banh Mi recipes.

Eat Pizza, the home of Korea’s original 10-inch pizza, is making waves in SM City Marilao. Popularly known for its rectangular pizza slices, Eat Pizza is freshly made with mouthwatering flavors such as Korean Sausage, Beef Bulgogi, Samgyeopsal, and Sweet Corn Cheese, as well as classic Pepperoni and Cheese.

Savor the flavors. Explore amazing food stops only at SM City Marilao. For the updates, visit https://www.facebook.com/SMCityMarilao.

McDonald’s Grand Reunion Brings People Back Together for the Holidays

For many Filipinos, Christmas is the most exciting time of year.  It's the time for long-awaited grand reunions, when family and friends finally gather together after months or even years away.  It's one of the most treasured traditions in the country.  However, not everyone has the opportunity to organize such events.  Some people spend the holidays apart from their families, missing out on the joys of being together.

This year, McDonald's Philippines intends to bridge that gap by offering free celebrations to certain groups.  Dubbed "Grand Reunion at McDo," this nationwide holiday effort will transform select McDonald's Party Rooms into festive locations for meaningful reunions taking place simultaneously across the country, restoring the warmth of the season to those who need it the most.

“By creating spaces where groups can once again gather meaningfully, McDonald’s taps directly into the Filipino cultural values of pagsasama-sama, pagsasalo-salo, and gratitude. It offers a simple yet heartfelt reminder that those who help make Christmas special for others deserve their own celebration too. In a season that can often feel overwhelming with crowded schedules, growing expenses, and emotional demands, Grand Reunion at McDo offers a refreshing alternative, a warm, uncomplicated, and inclusive holiday gathering that doesn’t require grand preparations.” ~Ada Lazaro, Chief Marketing Officer at McDonald's Philippines

How to be part of McDonalds’ Grand Reunion

Customers are encouraged to visit McDonald's Philippines' Facebook page and submit their story on the Grand Reunion post, including why they want to get together, what has kept them apart, and what makes their friendship worth celebrating.  McDonald's will accommodate groups of up to ten people on December 8 from 2-4pm, with two groups per party room for a total of 20 visitors.

Aside from a joyful and unique narrative, contestants will be chosen based on how their stories exemplify the spirit of community during the holiday season.  Participants may select their chosen McDonald's location.

Each party will receive boxes of Honey Butter Chicken McDo, enhanced with a "shake, tear, and sprinkle" event involving Garlic Parmesan and Snow Cheese Powder.  It's a simple ritual that transforms the meal into something to be enjoyed together. A McDonald's "Happiness Host" will also be there, not only to conduct light games or toasts, but also to help make the event feel more shared and unforgettable.

Reinforcing Filipino values

Lazaro added the initiative aims to reinforce Filipino values of bonding and connection during the Christmas season by offering a venue for meaningful reunions.

For more information about McDonald’s Philippines, visit www.mcdonalds.com.ph, McDo.ph on Meta, on Instagram, and on X.