How to make your holiday break more awesome

There’s only a limited number of days we can spend away from deadlines every year. Sure, we get days off on long weekends or special holidays, but it’s only during Christmas time that we get to truly pause, spend quality time with our loved ones, and catch up with the things that we love to do.

The holiday season is an excellent time to relax and forget about work and school, even for just a short while. A two-week break may pass by quickly, so it’s important to make every day count and be intentional with your time. This way, you get to have a more productive and meaningful break that you’ll always remember.

Catch-up with family and friends

Holidays are hectic, but they’re also the most fun with the company of the people you care about. Attend get-togethers and reunions as much as you can. Stay connected with your family members who are miles away from home through voice calls and video chats. These moments are great reminders that you are loved, no matter how much time you spend apart.

Carefully decide what gifts to get for your loved ones

You ought to sit down and think about what your loved ones would actually like to receive if you want to give them the most meaningful presents this year. Make a list of everyone who helped make this year particularly great, and use this as a moment to give them gifts to show your appreciation and love. Spend less time wandering through the mall and more time creating memories.

Pamper and spoil yourself, too

And finally, never forget the most important person that should be on your holiday list: you. Maximize the time you have this season by treating yourself with a well-deserved me-time—get to the hobby you’ve always been putting off, visit your favorite massage place, or buy yourself something new. It’s always a good idea to take breaks every once in a while, especially if it means doing things that make you happy.

Let this holiday season be a reminder that the best things in life don't have to be the most expensive ones. Oftentimes, you find awesomeness in your family's smiles, simple occasions shared with friends, and quality time with yourself. Of course, these moments are best remembered when you capture them with a reliable smartphone, just like Samsung’s latest Galaxy A Series devices.

Whether it’s for your loved ones or for yourself, the Galaxy A04s, A04, and A04e are ideal smartphones to make every moment count this holiday season. These devices will let you maximize your experience and do more as you embrace awesome moments. The Galaxy A04s is packed with a 50MP Triple Camera and 128GB expandable storage of up to 1TB perfect for taking snapshots with loved ones on Christmas Eve. While the Galaxy A04 and A04e sport a MediaTek Helio P35 Octa-core processor and 5,000 mAh long-lasting battery life ideal for daily-drivers who love to be productive over the holiday season.

The Galaxy A04s, A04, and A04e are available for as low as PHP 6,490 SRP at Samsung.com, Samsung Experience Stores, select Authorized Samsung Stores, Lazada, Shopee, Abenson.com, MemoXpress Online, and other accredited retailers.

To know more about the latest best-value Samsung Galaxy A Series smartphones, visit samsung.com/ph.

 

Safe Samsung Shopping

Health and safety protocols are strictly followed in Samsung Experience Stores to keep consumers and employees safe. Adhering to the guidelines set by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Samsung has implemented the mandatory use of face masks, and performs frequent sanitation in all stores.

 

Samsung Experience Stores also has unique QR health declaration codes to promote a safe and contactless contact tracing process. Product demonstrations are done side-by-side instead of face-to-face while keeping the required safe distance of one (1) meter to make sure everyone is socially distanced.

 

 

 

About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, smartphones, wearable devices, tablets, digital appliances, network systems, memory, system LSI, and LED solutions. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at http://news.samsung.com.

Tasting the stars’ at 40,000 feet, exclusively with Emirates

Only airline in the world to serve top champagnes

Emirates is currently the only commercial airline in the world officially serving Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot and Dom Pérignon onboard. Global airline exclusive agreements are in place until 2024, meaning that Emirates is the only international airline offering a ‘taste of the stars’ to passengers, inviting them to experience the sparkling sensations of the worlds’ most outstanding champagnes - at 40,000 feet.

 

Despite the well-documented world shortage of champagne, due to harsh weather and a reduced harvest in 2021, pandemic supply chain issues, and an explosion in demand for champagne globally, Emirates passengers remain well-served onboard with the finest selection of bubbles available, ready to toast the festive season, special occasions, and the hope and promise of a new year.

 

On Emirates, Dom Pérignon is served in First Class across all global routes, Veuve Clicquot is served in Business Class on routes to the Americas, UK, and Europe, and Moët & Chandon is served in Business Class on routes to Africa, Middle East, and Asia Pacific including Australasia. Economy Class passengers can also purchase Moët & Chandon onboard.

 

Celebrating special moments in the sky, Emirates passengers have enjoyed Moët Hennessy Champagnes onboard for over 30 years. The ‘perfect serve’ is offered as each champagne is delicately presented by highly trained cabin crew, at the perfect temperature, in a unique champagne glass providing an unforgettable experience.

 

There are many ways to enjoy champagne with Emirates, whether in your seat or at the onboard lounge of an A380. Economy passengers can also bring an extra sparkle to special occasions onboard by pre-booking a cake and champagne package. For US$43, cabin crew will surprise a passenger onboard with a mini celebration – including a luscious vanilla cake or decadent chocolate cake paired with Moët & Chandon Brut 20cl.

 

Passengers can also enjoy champagne in Emirates Lounges in Dubai and across the globe before they board their flight. In Dubai, the Emirates Business Class Lounge in Concourse B even has a unique Moët & Chandon Champagne Lounge, where each iconic cuvée is matched with mouth-watering canapés, created by Michelin-starred chefs. Passengers can learn more about the process of making champagne and Emirates collection on the Emirates Wine Channel, or speak to Emirates cabin crew who are provided with food pairing and technical notes for each champagne.

 

Providing the highest level of luxury and quality is imperative to Emirates’ promise of ‘fly better.’ For the last 16 years, Emirates has invested more than $1 billion into its wine program, buying exceptional wines and champagnes at the earliest opportunity, to let some of the wines mature allowing them to express their full potential before serving them on board.

Champagne Fun Facts from Emirates

1. Champagne comes from the north-eastern corner of France, the Champagne region, where winemaking dates back to the 17th century and vineyards span more than 84,000 acres across Montagne de Reims, Vallée de la Marne, Côte des Blancs, Côte de Sézanne and The Aube.

2. Emirates purchases more champagne than any other airline in the world.

3. Champagne gets its sparkle from being twice fermented in the bottle over prolonged periods of time, via a labor-intensive practice often referred to as méthode traditionnelle or méthode Champenoise.

4. Emirates is the number 1 global partner in the world of Dom Pérignon and has a 30-year history of serving the iconic champagne onboard.

5. Contrary to popular belief, a champagne cork should not be ‘popped.’ If it pops, it could indicate that the champagne is too warm or too young. Instead, champagne corks should be gently released, eliciting a soft hiss.

6. Legend has it that when Dom Pérignon first created his delicious bubbly champagne, he called out to his fellow monks "Come quickly, I am tasting the stars!"

7. The color of the champagne gives clues to its age - younger champagnes tend to be pale yellow, while older ones have a straw hue. Younger champagnes are also much clearer, while more mature champagnes have less clarity. Older champagnes also have fewer bubbles, which move at a slower pace.

8. Emirates will often serve exclusive vintages and plenitudes onboard, offering First Class passengers an opportunity to taste exceptionally rare champagne. Business Class passengers will also get the chance to occasionally try a special vintage of Moët & Chandon or Veuve Clicquot, or perhaps a special rosé. Passengers can find out what is being served on their flight in advance by checking the Emirates website.

Download ‘Tasting Notes - Enjoy the world’s best Champagne onboard Emirates’ for more information. 

Hotel Sogo lands two accolades at 10th Netizens Best Choice Awards

Hotel Sogo, the country’s largest Filipino-owned hotel chain company with over 45 branches nationwide, has been crowned as the “Best Choice Philippines Leading Hotel Chain” and won the “Philippines Guest Choice Awards” by the acclaimed Netizens Best Choice Awards 2022.

The Netizens Best Choice Awards for Business Excellence play a vital role in promoting responsible use of the internet since it conducts online research and surveys for promoting the best brands, products and services that distinguished itself among its competitors by earning the Netizen’s Trust Seal.

Awardees are chosen through an online nomination and multi-criteria evaluation in a variety of category such as Product/Brand/Service Quality & Innovativeness, Image/Value Proposition & Pricing, Strong Brand Online Market Influence, and Proper & Responsible means of using the internet. 

“This award is for the management, (as well as) the operations people [who are also considered as frontliners]. They worked so hard for this in a good and very respectful way. If not for them, Hotel Sogo will not be this big, well known, and will have many branches nationwide.” ~Ms. Sue Geminiano, Marketing Director of Hotel Sogo

As of writing, Hotel Sogo has 46 branches nationwide located in key cities in the metro and provinces. Further plans for expansion in other areas are still expected and the hotel looks forward to many more wins in the future. 

For more details, visit www.hotelsogo.com or like and follow Hotel Sogo on Facebook (facebook.com/hotelsogo), Twitter, and Instagram.

Building brand love in the Next Normal: How Mang Inasal redefines moment marketing for and with the customers

In an ever-changing digital landscape, brands have to get with the times in order to stay relevant and connected to their consumers. Sounds challenging, but it can definitely be done!

 

Enter the concept of Moment Marketing. For brands like Mang Inasal, Moment Marketing is taking advantage of the “here” and the “now” to bring brands to the forefront of consumer conversations, especially through something as fast-paced as social media.

 

“Social media opened a huge door for brands like Mang Inasal to connect real-time with customers. These platforms serve as avenues where we get to discover what makes our customers happy, ‘kilig’ and excited. These overflowing emotions signal to us what we can ‘trendjack’ and enable us to bring the brand within those conversations. Relationship-building with customers is now made faster all thanks to social media. SEVENTEEN’s fans, the Carats, have been tweeting Mang Inasal to support their idols. And as a special Christmas gift to them, we've granted their wish as we were among the sponsors of the SEVENTEEN WORLD TOUR [BE THE SUN] – BULACAN. For Mang Inasal, Moment Marketing is important because we want to be with our customers wherever they are and that includes the trends that matter to them. It excites us knowing that we are part of the conversation of our consumers because it’s a validation that we remain relevant to them. Mang Inasal is continuously learning today in terms of Moment Marketing and we can’t wait what 2023 has for us. But so far, our strategy is working for us because it allows the brand to sincerely connect with the consumers who talk about us, and create moments that will make them remember us more meaningfully.” ~RJ Jabeguero-Rodillo, Mang Inasal’s Head of Digital and PR

 

Mang Inasal and the value of real-time social listening

 

In 2022, Mang Inasal has redesigned a digital marketing strategy that puts its customers at the heart of the entire ecosystem. It developed a powerful, real-time social listening muscle that has allowed it to ride on trends that are most relevant to its customers.

 

Mang Inasal’s “16 Cup Challenge” was recently honored in the Marketing Excellence Awards-Philippines with a Silver Award under the Excellence in Viral Marketing category.

 

In this year alone, Mang Inasal was able to create buzz on social media with several marketing initiatives, such as the "16 Cups Challenge" that happened after SB19 member Stell’s mention of his own Mang Inasal record. It became a three-day trending topic on Twitter, evolving later into a nationwide challenge. This challenge was recently honored in the Marketing Excellence Awards-Philippines with a Silver Award under the Excellence in Viral Marketing category. 

Mang Inasal’s most recent concert sponsorship with K-Pop performance powerhouse, SEVENTEEN, shows exactly how well-positioned Mang Inasal is when it comes to its consumers’ interests.

From being a trending topic, Mang Inasal granted the wish of the SEVENTEEN’s fans, the Carats, and became among the sponsors of the SEVENTEEN WORLD TOUR [BE THE SUN] – BULACAN.  

Meaningful connections through its digital presence

 

Mang Inasal’s digital presence has truly evolved past the traditional brand monologues and digital posters. Through its community-powered strategy, Mang Inasal has significantly surpassed engagement targets by 240% and improved positive sentiments across channels, due in part to its more authentic brand tone, raw user-generated content, and community-centric messaging.

 

From being mere observers of social media to being an online friend listening to its customers’ voices, Mang Inasal’s brand has transformed into an entity that ‘phygitally’ [physically-digitally] takes care of the communities it serves - both within its physical stores and digitally across social media platforms.

Talk More with DITO, Saan Man sa Mundo

To give Filipinos the most affordable rates when keeping in touch with family and friends anywhere in the world, DITO Telecommunity launched its international services promos for International Direct Dialing (IDD) and roaming services.

The new DITO IDD promo packs, available from October 1, 2022 to March 31, 2023, enable subscribers to avail more minutes for IDD calls to different parts of the world at more affordable rates. 

With DITO IDD Promo Pack One, customers can make 25 minutes IDD outgoing calls to the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, China, Singapore, Malaysia, and South Korea for only P50 good for 15 days.  They can also opt for DITO IDD Promo Pack Two worth P100 to make 60 minutes IDD outgoing calls to the same countries valid for 30 days.

Those who wish to call loved ones in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, India, Japan, and Thailand can avail the DITO IDD Promo Pack Three to make 20 minutes IDD outgoing calls for only P100.  This promo pack is valid for 30 days.

DITO IDD Promo Pack Four, which costs P100, allows subscribers to make 5 minutes IDD outgoing calls to Bahrain, Israel, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, France, Italy, Spain, Brunei, Indonesia, Macao, Taiwan, and Vietnam.  This promo pack is valid for 30 days.

All DITO IDD promo packs include 1GB data for messaging apps such as Viber, FB Messenger, Whats App, Facetime, Telegram, WeChat, Line, Skype, Kakao Talk, and Zoom.  

“Filipinos always have loved ones and friends living overseas whom they would want to keep in touch with, especially during the holiday season. Despite the distance, DITO wants its more than 13 million DITOzens to still feel the presence of their loved ones through long and meaningful calls and messages. Through our DITO IDD promo packs, they won’t have to worry too much about the cost of making an international call, making it easier for them to always connect with family and friends.” ~Evelyn Jimenez, DITO Telecommunity Chief Commercial Officer

DITO also launched a promo for its roaming service, which ensures subscribers’ continuous SIM activity while traveling abroad.  Starting December 20, DITOzens staying in Hongkong, Malaysia, Singapore, Cambodia, Indonesia, and Thailand can 

purchase DITO Roaming Promo Packs just for data use: P150 for  100MB + 100MB Bonus Data valid for 1 day, P250 for 200MB + 200MB Bonus Data valid for 3 Days, and P600 for 500MB + 500MB Bonus Data valid for 7 days. 

Come January 13, they  can also use their DITO SIM to make five minutes of incoming or outgoing calls and 5 SMS for only P150 (160 char/SMS) valid for three days. 

For more details about DITO roaming service, visit https://dito.ph/International/Roaming. For more details about DITO IDD promo, visit https://dito.ph/International/IDD. To avail the international service promo packs, download the DITO app at https://dito.ph/app-landing. 

###   

About DITO Telecommunity

DITO Telecommunity Corporation, is the newest major telecommunications provider in the Philippines after it was awarded a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity by the National Telecommunications Commission in 2019.

DITO commits to provide world class, fast, affordable, and secure telecommunications services that endeavors to connect and empower Filipino communities wherever they may be and aims to see a day where data access is no longer a privilege, but a right for everyone.

DITO is a Filipino company and is a consortium that includes Udenna Corporation and China Telecommunications Corporation. 

DITO Telecommunity Links: 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DITOphofficial

Instagram: @ditophofficial

Twitter: @DITOphofficial 

Tiktok: @ditophofficial

Viber: @ditophofficial

BENCH Techs-up with UnionBank: Digital payments enhanced in 800+ stores across the nation

Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank) has partnered with Suyen Corporation (BENCH Group) to help the leading clothing and lifestyle brand digitize payments in its more than 800 brick-and-mortar and affiliate stores all over the country, for easier and more convenient transactions for its customers. 

The contract signing ceremony between UnionBank and BENCH took place last November 14 at the UnionBank Plaza in Pasig City.

"We believe that the use of QRPH in our offline stores should bring many benefits and convenience to our customers. We want to thank UnionBank for this initiative in tapping us as a partner." ~Bryan Lim, Vice President for Business Development Group of BENCH

To help BENCH digitize its transactions, UnionBank will be generating in-store QRPH codes that will serve as additional payment channels for shoppers. This will allow them to quickly pay for their purchases without worrying about loose change. They also won't need to use their on-hand cash or fall in line to withdraw cash at ATMs, saving them time. 

"This great milestone promises to trailblaze the way we do our business in our respective fields and keep up with the changing needs of our customers. This is a valuable opportunity to ensure that our customers will have a more enjoyable way of shopping." ~Gerry Austria, UnionBank Merchant Acquiring and Payment Gateway Head

Because the partnership leverages QRPH's wide range of accepted payment providers through partner banks and popular digital wallets, shoppers can pay for their purchases digitally without worrying about using services or apps they are not familiar with, and simply opt for those that they are already using.

PEPSI Celebrates an "Extra Saya" Christmas

Pepsi Extra Sarap Xmas

Go ‘extra’ with Pepsi this Christmas. Encouraging Filipinos to go all-out this season, Pepsi’s Holiday campaign is top-billed by celebrities Kathryn Bernardo, Daniel Padilla, Donny Pangilinan, Belle Mariano, Mimiyuuh, and Alyssa Valdez.

’Tis the season to be extra! 

This Christmas, Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines Inc., the exclusive manufacturer of PepsiCo beverages in the country, enjoins Filipinos to celebrate the Holidays with gusto with “Paskong Extra Sarap with Pepsi.” This fun, vibrant Holiday campaign highlights how Filipinos go above and beyond in making every moment special with loved ones and friends, especially during Christmas and New Year. 

With over 13 million views on YouTube, The #PepsiExtraSarapXmas video is top-billed by celebrity love-teams Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla, and Donny Pangilinan and Belle Mariano, as well as social media sensation Mimiyuuuh and volleyball phenom  Alyssa Valdez. The #PepsiExtraSarapXmas campaign aims to empower young Filipinos to be themselves unapologetically. By making stand-out choices—in fashion, hobbies, and even their meal pairings, they can make their holiday celebrations all the more “extra” and memorable with Pepsi. 

“This year’s Christmas celebration is extra special for many reasons. After two years of heightened restrictions, we have taken the necessary steps to allow for gatherings with family and close friends while still keeping each other safe. We at PCPPI are excited to experience the Filipino spirit of community and thanksgiving during the ‘most wonderful time of the year,’ with our well-loved beverages as part of every celebration. Let us remember there remains to be plenty of ‘extra’ for us to be thankful for this Christmas and in the coming New Year. May we cherish the bonds that bring us together not just during the Holidays but every day of the years ahead.” ~Frederick D. Ong, PCPPI President and Chief Executive Officer

PCPPI enjoins merrymakers to embrace the season’s festive vibe by going “extra,” be it in their party attire, family games, and even the much-anticipated Noche Buena and Media Noche. 

PCPPI is the exclusive bottler of PepsiCo beverages in the country. The group manufactures and sells well-known brands such as Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, 7-Up, Mirinda, Mug, Gatorade, Tropicana, Lipton, Milkis, Aquafina, and Premier.

About Pepsi Philippines

Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines Inc. (PCPPI) is the exclusive manufacturer of PepsiCo beverages & snacks in the Philippines, with a relationship spanning 70 years. PCPPI manufactures and sells well-known food and beverage brands: Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, 7-Up, Mirinda, Mug, Gatorade, Tropicana, Lipton, Sting, Premier, Sips, Milkis, Let’s Be and Aquafina. It has established 14 manufacturing facilities across the country, serving more than 700,000 outlets and providing employment through its extensive distribution network.

 

PCPPI is committed to create a positive impact on society with programs focused on environmental sustainability, nutrition, education, and livelihood. For more information, visit www.pepsiphilippines.com.

Panda Express® Adds Wok-Seared Steak and Shrimp to its Philippine Menu

NEW DISH ALERT!

Panda Express®, the largest Asian dining concept in the world, is bringing a surf & turf limited time offer entrée and one of its top sellers to the Philippines—the Wok-Seared Steak and Shrimp, which is savory with a little bit of spice, rich in flavors from top sirloin steak and succulent shrimp, and with textures from the fresh green beans, bell peppers, onions, and potatoes. 

 

“Wok-Seared Steak and Shrimp is unlike any other item we offer at Panda Express®. Joining the Chinese wok with the American steakhouse experience resulted in a dish reminiscent of a classic steak dinner while still offering the bold flavors and fresh ingredients that makes it uniquely Panda. The Wok Smart American Chinese dish is an indulgent experience of a quality steakhouse dinner without the guilt. Wok-Seared Steak and Shrimp is high in protein and light on calories.” ~Chef Jimmy Wang, Head of Culinary Innovation at Panda Express

 

Starting November, fans will be delighted to get a taste of the juicy steak and large succulent shrimp, wok-tossed with potatoes, seasonal hand-cut yellow and red bell peppers, yellow onions, and green beans. These fresh ingredients, finished with a savory Chinese-inspired steak sauce, are transformed in a searing wok that bring a hint of smokiness that only wok cooking over open fire can create.

 

Chinese American Classics 

Panda Express® was founded by husband-and-wife tandem, co-CEO and co-founders Andrew and Peggy Cherng in 1983. They popularized American Chinese cuisine by using authentic Chinese recipes adapted to global tastes, which successfully established the brand as the largest Asian dining concept in the US and the largest American-Chinese concept in the world.

 

This Holiday season, families and friends can enjoy a variety of delicious entrées with Chinese and Sichuan influences including its bestselling The Original Orange Chicken, a wok-tossed crispy chicken coated in sweet tangy sauce; and the award-winning Honey Walnut Shrimp, a mouth-watering entrée made with premium crispy shrimp wok-tossed in a honey sauce and topped with glazed walnuts. Celebrations will be extra special with these Panda Express favorites that are also available in family or party trays. 

 

Operated by the Jollibee Group in the Philippines, Panda Express has thirteen stores in Metro Manila that are open for dine-in, take-out, and delivery through order.pandaexpress.com.ph, GrabFood, and foodpanda. Delivery locations include select areas in Manila, Pasay, Makati, and Quezon City.

 

These stores are in Don Antonio, Quezon City; SM Megamall; SM North EDSA; SM Grand Central; SM Southmall; Robinsons Place Manila; Shell SLT, SLEX (South Luzon Expressway) Southbound; Double Dragon Meridian Park; SM Mall of Asia; Molito, Alabang; Greenhills; Greenmeadows; and Betterliving, Parañaque.

 

To get more information on Panda Express, you may visit www.facebook.com/PandaExpressPH/ and on Instagram.

About Panda Express® 

On a mission to inspire better lives, Panda Express® is the largest Asian dining concept in the world. Family-owned and operated since 1983 by co-founders and co-CEOs Andrew and Peggy Cherng, Panda Express is best known as a trailblazer for creating a wide variety of industry-first recipes, including its best seller The Original Orange Chicken® and award-winning Honey Walnut Shrimp, which have defined the category of authentic American Chinese cuisine. Each entrée at Panda Express, including the Wok Smart selections, is thoughtfully crafted with quality ingredients, and inspired by bold Chinese flavors and culinary principles. The restaurant brand has more than 2,400 locations and has introduced American Chinese cuisine to twelve international countries. Visit www.facebook.com/PandaExpressPH/ and on Instagram for more information.

CSMC advocates for better kidney health during the holidays

Christmas is not just a holiday for Filipinos - it is a time of celebration and revelry, of coming home and spending time with family, friends, and loved ones. That is usually done in a variety of ways, like throwing parties, singing karaoke, and of course, eating and drinking. A Filipino Christmas is not complete without a feast!

 

While Christmas is indeed the season to be jolly, it is important to keep oneself in check, especially when it comes to what we eat and how much. Delicious and savory meals might also be high in sodium or sugar content, which may actually increase the risk of developing kidney stones.

“Sometimes, even our favorite food can cause harm to our bodily functions if we eat too much of it. An uptick in dietary sodium content increases the amount of calcium excretion in the urine, while an excess of sugar can cause increased urine calcium and decreased urine volume, a perfect scenario for urinary stone formation. Some major dietary aggressors are large amounts of red meat, nuts, seafood, and shellfish because of the sodium and uric acid content. Junk foods and highly processed foods, too. Of course, too much sugar is also bad for the body. It increases your risk of packing on weight, and obesity makes you more prone to developing stones. It’s also a common misconception that milk and dairy products can cause kidney stones, because it contains calcium. That’s only partially true. The body still needs calcium, and proteins and oxalate can be found in foods that are actually healthy for the body, like peanuts, beans, spinach and strawberries. The solution is to consume moderate amount of calcium-rich foods with oxalate-rich foods, so that they bind together in the gut and get digested properly, instead of being excreted in the kidney. Softdrinks and drinks with alcoholic content are the staples for Filipino families during a Christmas party, so make sure that there is also clean drinking water available. I even personally recommend avoiding those drinks altogether. It’s also important not to skip out on the fruits and vegetables, especially citrus fruits, as the citric acid alkalinizes the urine and is a natural inhibitor of stone formation. While of course, we advocate for the prevention of kidney stones by making healthier lifestyle choices, we hope patients know that CSMC is happy to offer its services to those who need it, especially those who are currently suffering from kidney stones or are exhibiting symptoms. Patients are assured that they will receive the best possible care here.” ~Dr. Jason L. Letran, Cardinal Santos Medical Center’s (CSMC) Chief of the Section of Urology

Dr. Jason L. Letran, Cardinal Santos Medical Center’s (CSMC) Chief of the Section of Urology

Kidney stones are usually formed when urine has an abundance of crystal-forming substances in it, like calcium, oxalate and uric acid, and not enough fluid to dilute them. This can cause them to bind together and harden.

The best way to prevent kidney stones this holiday season, according to Dr. Letran, is to prepare healthier food options, watch your portions, eat responsibly and proper hydration.

 

Finally, in the event that you come to pass a kidney stone or suspect you may have one, it is best to seek advice and treatment from a reputable hospital.

CSMC’s Urology and Stone Center offers some of the most comprehensive urological services, not just in the Philippines, but in Asia. Apart from services such as minimally invasive surgeries of the genito-urinary tract for both benign and malignant conditions, it offers various treatments for prostate cancer such as surgery, external beam radiation and brachytherapy. The center also houses a state-of-the-art Richard Wolf Piezolith 3000 Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) machine which ensures precise and effective disintegration of kidney stones, and is equipped with fluoroscopy and ultrasound imaging to help locate stones more accurately.

For more information about the programs and services that CSMC offers, please visit https://cardinalsantos.com.ph/. CSMC is also on Facebook, like and follow them at www.facebook.com/CardinalSantos.

 

 

 

ABOUT CARDINAL SANTOS MEDICAL CENTER

Cardinal Santos Medical Center (CSMC) is a 287-bed private tertiary hospital located in West Greenhills, San Juan City. The hospital is known for its pioneering and world-class services in the fields of Neurosurgery, Oncology, Rehabilitation Medicine, Cardiology and Gastroenterology. CSMC boasts of some of the most respected medical professionals today with expertise in a variety of specialties, ensuring that patients can access the healthcare that they need and deserve. With a commitment to clinical excellence and a dedication to compassionate care, CSMC is one of the most sought-after medical institutions in the country today.

Hotel Sogo shines at Asian Business Excellence Awards

Congratulations, Hotel Sogo!

The Asian Business Excellence Awards (ABEA) is a prestigious International Citation in recognizing Asian excellence in corporate, products, services features and trademarks and/or brands founded by Young Asian Consumers Welfare Advocate.

The country’s largest Filipino-owned hotel chain company has been awarded as Asia’s Most Outstanding Hotel Chain of the Year and Philippines Most Leading Hotel Chain of the Year. Meanwhile, Hotel Sogo’s CEO, Mr. Reynaldo M. Malaca was recognized as the Philippines Most Outstanding CEO of The Year at the recent Asian Business Excellence Awards 2022 held in Quezon City.

Hotel Sogo Marketing Director, Ms. Sue Geminiano shares her gratitude to the award-winning organization for recognizing the hotel’s goal in providing a clean, safe, and top-notch service to its patrons and guests.

“On behalf of Hotel Sogo, thank you Asian Business Excellence Awards 2022 for giving us these recognitions. These awards are nothing if not because of the management and the hardworking staff of our operations. We will continue to give our all in providing our guests a safe and clean stay. Hotel Sogo will not be here without your love and support.” ~Ms. Sue Geminiano, Hotel Sogo Marketing Director

Currently, Hotel Sogo has 46 branches nationwide located in key areas around the metro and provinces. The hotel anticipates expanding in more areas of the country and looks forward to many more recognition in the future. 

For more details, visit www.hotelsogo.com or like and follow Hotel Sogo on Facebook (facebook.com/hotelsogo), Twitter, and Instagram.

UBX appoints digital transformation and A.I. expert Mario Domingo as new global CTO

Mario Domingo as its new Global Chief Technology Officer

UBX, the leading open finance platform in the Philippines, has appointed digital transformation and artificial intelligence expert Mario Domingo as its new Global Chief Technology Officer.

With over three decades of experience under his belt, Domingo is one of the most successful digital transformation executives in the Asia Pacific Region, having played multiple roles in various organizations in Asia and the US. 

Domingo is now responsible for the management of product development and technology services at UBX and will spearhead the company’s platform and ecosystem development initiatives.

“Innovation is at the core of UBX’s existence. Domingo’s vast exposure to and experience in technology will certainly complement and strengthen our continuous pursuit for innovation to promote financial and social inclusion,” ~John Januszczak, UBX President

Prior to his appointment as the new UBX CTO, Domingo was the Asia Pacific Group CTO of the Chicago Board Options Exchange, a high-throughput, high-performance equities trading platform. During his tenure, he successfully built Artificial Intelligence technology businesses and is the founder of DARC Labs, a cancer and diagnostics research center powered by AI.

UBX and I share the same passion for digital transformation, knowing full well that it creates a huge impact in the lives of many people. I commit to continuously pursue innovation and lead the development of new solutions that will strengthen our goals towards financial and social inclusion in the Philippines

“UBX and I share the same passion for digital transformation, knowing full well that it creates a huge impact in the lives of many people. I commit to continuously pursue innovation and lead the development of new solutions that will strengthen our goals towards financial and social inclusion in the Philippines.” ~Mario Domingo as its new Global Chief Technology Officer

With a double Master’s degree in Science in Finance and Economics at the University of Southern California and a certificate degree in Artificial Intelligence from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Computer Science Artificial Intelligence Lab to boot, Domingo is nothing short of a virtuoso in the fields of financial technology, media, telecommunications, health care, manufacturing, and defense. Currently, he is also the director of the Ateneo Institute for Digital Enterprises of the Graduate School of Business.

About UBX

Originally the financial technology venture studio and fund of UnionBank of the Philippines, UBX is now the Philippines' leading Open Finance platform. UBX is predicated on a future where financial services are invisible: seamlessly embedded into the experiences and activities that truly matter to businesses and people. For partnerships, email us at hello@ubx.ph. 

 

For more information about the company and this article, please visit www.ubx.ph.

Make your Christmas merry with McDonald’s App 12 Days of Christmas Promo! Exciting deals and big prizes are up for grabs!

Satisfy your McDo cravings and get a chance to win up to P500,000 on the grand draw by joining McDonald’s App’s raffle promo.

McDonald’s is keeping your Christmas countdown fun and exciting through the 12 Days of Christmas promo in the McDonald's App! Look forward to exciting deals and cash prizes that will make your Christmas celebration even more festive. With every purchase of a McDonald’s App Christmas deal, users can get a chance to win up to P500,000 for the grand prize and up to P50,000 in daily prizes.

Aside from big cash prizes, the McDonald’s App Christmas Deals feature all-time McDonald’s favorites! Enjoy the perfect combination with Large Fries N’ Coke McFloat Combo at only P99. Save P27 on an extra-filling meal with the 2-pc. Chicken McDo with Coke Zero deal for only P150. Satisfy your burger cravings with Double Cheeseburger with Fries Medium Meal for only P170! Lastly, enjoy an extra-saucy meal with 2-pc. McCrispy Chicken Fillet Ala King with Rice and Fries for only P170!

The 12 Days of Christmas promo will run from December 14 up to December 25, so don’t miss your chance to win big prizes, while also saving on your McDo Favorites! Simply download the McDonald’s app and enjoy this limited-time offering.

How to participate in the promo:

Step One: Download and register for an account on the McDonald’s app. 
Google Play Store – bit.ly/mcdoph-app-android
App Store – bit.ly/mcdoph-app-ios

Step Two: Use the McDonald’s app to redeem any Christmas deal. Every purchase of a Christmas deal entitles you to one (1) raffle ticket.

Step Three: Click on the 12 Days of Christmas banner on the app. Once you’re redirected to the e-raffle page, input your official receipt number, order number, and survey number. Be careful in supplying your details correctly and completely because this will be the basis of your raffle entry. Make sure to keep your receipt as proof of purchase and for validation purposes.

McDonald’s will draw eleven (11) winners of P50,000 and one (1) grand winner of P500,000. The raffle winners will be announced on the McDonald’s Facebook page in January 2023. Winners will also be contacted via email or call for claiming of prizes.

What are you waiting for? Download the McDonald’s App and join the 12 Days of Christmas promo from December 14-25 for a chance to win big cash prizes!

Visit and follow McDonald’s Philippines on Facebook and Instagram for more information about this offer and to stay up-to-date on all McDo announcements.

Globe, SM Advantage Card (SMAC) #UniteVsHunger, join hands for the Hapag Movement

With every purchase of a SMAC card and every checkout, shoppers can now help support a family in need.

Leading digital solutions platform Globe and SM Advantage Card (SMAC), the loyalty card of retail giant SM, have come together to help put meals on the table of those in need through the Hapag Movement, Globe’s technology-driven program against involuntary hunger.

“We are excited to partner with SMAC at the most joyful time of the year so we can bring cheer to our fellow Filipinos who continue to suffer due to involuntary hunger. Now, it’s easier for shoppers to share their blessings to the needy, bring food to the table, and get assistance for decent livelihood as we mark this Christmas season post-pandemic.” ~Yoly Crisanto, Globe Group Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer

Through the partnership, P50.00 will be donated to the Hapag Movement and other SM Foundation programs for every purchase of a new SMAC card.

On top of this, SMAC members who will shop select items at the SM Store, SM Beauty, SM Appliance, Kultura, Surplus, Our Home, Baby Company, Crate and Barrel, Levi's, The Body Shop, Forever21, Ecco, and Miniso will earn up to 1,000 EXTRA SMAC Points, and half of the EXTRA points they earn will be donated to the movement starting December 15, 2022 until January 15, 2023, in time for this season of giving.

“Our collaboration with Globe for the Hapag Movement is a pioneering partnership for us as it aligns with the SM brand’s goal of providing support to Filipinos every way we can. This is the time for us to rally behind this cause to help those who continue to reel from the impact of the pandemic and challenges due to rising living costs. Ibalik natin ang sarap ng Pasko. We celebrate the season of giving with our SMAC members with the gift of giving— letting them share blessings with our most vulnerable kababayans.” ~Jay Beltran, SMAC SAVP Head of Sales and Marketing

Globe’s Hapag Movement leverages on technology and collaboration to help 100,000 families experiencing involuntary hunger through supplemental feeding and livelihood support.

Globe initiated the program to help Filipinos severely affected by the pandemic, with its effects still felt until today.  An estimated 2.9 million individuals reported suffering from involuntary hunger as of October this year, largely unchanged from the quarter before, according to a Social Weather Stations Survey.

To learn more about the Hapag Movement, visit its official page. You may also visit smac.ph or download the SMAC app to know more.

OKBet, GenSan Warriors ‘play it forward’ at grassroots basketball camp

The future of Filipino sports. Players and coaching staff of the GenSan Warriors pose with the participants of OKBet’s “Play It Forward” basketball camp in Tondo, Manila.

The sound of excited laughter and the squeak of sneakers echoed throughout the 838 Sports Center in Tondo, Manila recently as participants of the OKBet “Play It Forward” campaign gathered for their basketball camp. With the help of the local sportsbook, the next generation of Filipino athletes were given an opportunity to hone their skills and gain experience.

Among the beneficiaries for the grassroots initiative were students from the Alternative Learning System (ALS) program of Marcela Agoncillo Elementary School, Rajah Solaiman Elementary School, and Pedro Guevarra Elementary School.

Aged 16 to 20 years old, participants learned directly from the pros, namely, the players and coaching staff from the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) team GenSan Warriors OKBet, headed by Coach Marlon Martin.

At the awarding ceremony, Robert Chen, Vice President for Marketing and Business Development of OKBet, and Wendella Tabio, Education Program Specialist for ALS Manila, recognized the hard work of the participants.

“Kami sa DepEd ay lubos na natutuwa na mapabilang sa [programa ng OKBet]. Nawa’y magpatuloy ang inyong adhikain na ma-develop lalo ang skills ng ating mga kabataan sa larangan ng palakasan,” [We at DepEd are delighted to be part of OKBet's program and we hope it will continue to provide young people with the opportunity to reach their full athletic potential].” ~Wendella Tabio, Education Program Specialist for ALS Manila

Slam dunk opportunity.  GenSan Warriors OKBet head coach Marlon Martin trains ALS learners from different elementary schools in Manila.

Mermann Flores, team manager of the powerhouse Gensan Warriors, and point guard Nico Elorde shared inspiring words with the participants at the event.

“Dream high, reach your goals. ‘Wag susuko.” ~Nico Elorde, Point Guard

Last October, OKBet stirred up excitement for its “Play It Forward” campaign during the first public appearance of candidates for Mr. and Ms. Chinatown 2022, which the sports booking platform company also sponsored.

 

At the launch event, OKBet's Corporate Social Responsibility Program Manager Pebbles Muniz shared her enthusiasm for inspiring Filipino youth through sports, expressing the company’s desire to reach out to young promising athletes around the country.