Disney Cruise Line Reveals Spaces and Experiences Coming to the Disney Adventure, Setting Sail on December 15, 2025

Thursday, October 24, 2024

Disney Adventure

Drawing on over 100 years of storytelling from Disney, Marvel and Pixar, the first Disney Cruise Line ship for guests in Asia will be filled with epic experiences, endless adventures and something for everyone to delight in


When the Disney Adventure sets sail from Singapore on December 15, 2025, guests will be treated to a magical cruise holiday that celebrates Disney’s rich legacy of storytelling, bringing to life the fantastical worlds and beloved characters at the heart of Disney, Pixar and Marvel.

Continuing Disney Cruise Line’s tradition of delivering the most magical and relaxing vacations at sea, the Disney Adventure will also feature many “firsts” for the fleet, including experiences specially created for guests in Asia to enjoy.


In a first for Disney Cruise Line, the Disney Adventure will house a one-of-a-kind adventure zone on the high seas. This adventure zone, a celebration of the larger-than-life personalities from the Marvel Universe, will have three new Disney attractions, including Ironcycle Test Run – the longest rollercoaster at sea. Guests can also look forward to a remarkable spread of dining options comprising not just international favorites but also world-renowned Asian cuisine. Showstopping Broadway-style entertainment will dazzle in an all-new musical spectacular, “Remember,” developed exclusively for the Disney Adventure, and, for every traveling group and size, there will be numerous luxurious and comfortable stateroom types for guests to retreat and unwind in.

Bookings for the Disney Adventure are scheduled to open on December 10, 2024. Details on pricing and sailing dates will be released on November 14, 2024.
Read More

From Fairways to Fashion: Malbon Is Soon to Launch In The Philippines!

Malbon

Malbon, the trailblazing lifestyle brand that fuses fashion with the essence of golf, will be opening their largest store worldwide right here in the Philippines! Judging by the border-up that was just installed, it will be over a half city-block long in the heart of BGC at the Shangri-La, facing 5th Avenue.

Stephen and Erica Malbon

Founded by the dynamic duo Stephen and Erica Malbon, the brand was established in 2017 in Los Angeles and has quickly become a standout in the world of fashion. Their mission is to revitalize golf culture by making it more accessible and appealing to a wider, younger audience. They achieve this with a streetwear approach that’s applied in a creative way which pays homage to the robust heritage of golf. 

Jimmy Choo

They have bi-weekly collection drops and a diverse portfolio of collaborations ranging from Footjoy to Coca Cola to Jimmy Choo to Wu Tang Clan. O’, and Erica is Filipina so we’re hoping for some Philippines inspired designs in the future!


It's not just about the apparel—Malbon has a Buckets Club which is a community for golfers, athletes, artists, and creatives alike. It offers members unique benefits like early access to product drops, invites to special store events, and participation in golf events around the country which are structured for complete beginners, seasoned golfers, and everyone in-between to join.


We were curious about the Cloud also included on the border-up. It turns out it’s the logo for TKG Lifestyle, a local group ‘dedicated to redefining how retail is done in the Philippines’ based on their website. They’re also behind Gentle Monster and % Arabica just next door and the fitness facility Pretty Huge, so we’re pretty sure this Malbon flagship is also going to be a unique experience itself. Very excited to learn more in the coming months, stay tuned and start stretching your hips now!

Stay tuned for their social media handles launching soon at Facebook: Malbon PH, Instagram and TikTok: @malbon.ph . Follow us for future updates!
Read More

realme Partners with Honor of Kings and brings back Regional Wars

realme Regional Wars

The comeback of realme Regional Wars will be powered by the soon-to-launch realme 13 Series 5G

The realme Regional Wars makes its comeback following the announcement that the realme 13+ 5G is the Honor of Kings Championship 2024’s official gaming phone. This time, the smartphone brand brings Limitless Speed to Victory with the realme Regional Wars: Honor of Kings.

realme’s Partnership with Honor of Kings 2024 Championship (HKC 2024)

The partnership fosters realme’s deeper connection with the mobile gaming ecosystem. It also reinforces the brand’s commitment to empowering the gaming community and creating unbeatable gaming experiences where greatness can be achieved. realme VP and Marketing Officer Chase Xu shared, “The partnership marks a key milestone as we know how much our young users in Southeast Asia enjoy playing Honor of Kings and are in need of a powerful smartphone that satisfies their gaming moments; we are glad for the opportunity to showcase a cutting-edge smartphone that can let young users enjoy tech experiences that exceed expectations.”

During the playoffs, two teams represented the Philippines in the HKC 2024, namely, BOOM Esports and Blacklist International. The latter is set to play against Team Secret on October 25. Meanwhile, the HKC 2024 Grand Finals will commence on October 27 in Jakarta, Indonesia.

realme Regional Wars: Honor of Kings

Similarly, the realme Regional Wars: Honor of Kings will be powered by the realme 13 Series 5G. Arriving in the local market on October 24, users can maximize their potential and blend their passion for competition with creativity with the latest smartphone series from realme.

The qualifiers started in SM Cyberzone Challenger Series at SM City Clark where Eureka Esports qualified in North Luzon. Meanwhile, the NCR qualifiers will commence on October 24. The realme Regional Wars: Honor of Kings qualifiers will be reaching key cities in Visayas (Iloilo City) on October 26 and Mindanao (Davao City) on November 9. Meanwhile, the qualifiers in South Luzon will happen on November 10.

A total of 12 teams play against each other per qualifier, where the top eight (8) teams proceed to the Quarter Finals on November 16. The Semi-Finals is scheduled on November 17 where the best four (4) teams will battle it out for the realme Regional Wars: Honor of Kings Grand Finals. The realme Regional Wars: Honor of Kings offers a prize pool worth P200,000 cash and products.

For more information and announcement on the realme Regional Wars: Honor of Kings, head to the official realme Facebook page.
Read More

The Nautilus at CaSoBe – Calatagan South Beach: The Voyage Begins for Luxurious Resort Living at Landco Pacific Corporation’s Iconic Beachfront Condotel

Wednesday, October 23, 2024


An architectural landmark that features hotel amenities, rental income opportunities and access to CaSoBe’s hospitality and leisure attractions

The Nautilus, Landco Pacific Corporation’s newly-launched 10-storey condotel at the 15-hectare Landco BeachTowns, CaSoBe, draws its inspiration from the famous submarine, Nautilus, featured in Jules Verne's classic novel, Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea. Commanding, like a ship on the shore, the iconic structure of The Nautilus carves the beach skyline as a homage to the legendary Nautilus, captained by the enigmatic Captain Nemo, known for its advanced technology, mysterious allure, and exploration of the unknown depths of the ocean.

"This is more than a home – it’s a sanctuary where infinite possibilities are anchored in every sunrise, every sunset, and every wave that laps the shore," said Erickson Manzano President & CEO, Landco Pacific Corporation.


Living in this beachfront condotel offers a vibrant lifestyle. Mornings can start with yoga or a cup of favorite brew on the private balcony, where sea views inspire mindfulness. Community ties strengthen through beach potlucks and events, fostering belonging. Residents engage in activities like jogging, beach volleyball, and water sports, while creativity thrives in the lively atmosphere. Outdoor spaces are also perfect for unwinding and relishing the stunning sunsets at CaSoBe.

The Nautilus is master-planned by an award-winning international team of designers and thought leaders of sustainable built environments. Its architecture was designed by Pomeroy Studio in Singapore and Visionarch, ranked 57th in the World Architecture 100 in 2024. Its target turnover is in January 2029.


The mixed-use beachfront condotel offers 171 residential units and 5 commercial units in a 4,614.5 sqm land area. Unit sizes are comprised of: Studio (38.1-39 sqm), One-bedroom (63.1-92.2 sqm), One-bedroom loft (65-79.9 sqm), Two-bedroom (76.4-96.5 sqm), Two-Bedroom Loft (123.4-124.6 sqm) and Three-bedroom (138.2-182.7 sqm). Commercial units range from 45.3 to 235 sqm.


All units have a priceless view of the bay and either facing the CaSoBe development along Miami South Street or Aquaria Water Park; open air private outdoor spaces (balcony); generous floor-to-ceiling height of the general area at approximately 2.80 meters and select energy-efficient appliances in place.

The Nautilus is accessible with vehicular and pedestrian access, pedestrian access from the boardwalk, residential and hotel guests parking area, and commercial parking area.

Sustainability Meets Luxury

The condotel is distinctive for its sustainability features that use: recycled non-potable water for toilet flushing and plant irrigation, water-efficient plumbing fixtures or low flow plumbing fixtures to reduce water consumption, solar panels at the rooftop and parking canopies, double glazed low-E windows for better energy efficiency and reduced solar heat gain and improved sound insulation.

The building incorporates reinforcing bars made from recycled steel, window frames using recycled aluminum, and low carbon footprint cement for masonry works. Its design features natural ventilation with garden courts at the hallways, mandatory use of LED lighting fixtures and use of energy savings appliances for all units, as well as Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations for its residents and guests.

Like all recent Landco Pacific developments, The Nautilus is registered and proudly pursuing EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) certification with at least 20% energy savings, water savings and embodied energy in materials.

Condotel Rental Income Opportunities

Landco Lifestyle Ventures (LLV) operates the leisure amenities and extraordinary accommodations in Landco’s BeachTowns situated in Laiya and Calatagan in Batangas and Samal Island, Davao. At CaSoBe, with its team of hospitality experts, LLV shall provide hospitality management services for the rental program of The Nautilus. LLV shall operate the building as a 4-star hotel, focusing on the value appreciation of our clients’ investments.

Year-Round Summer with Unique Resort Amenities at the Award-Winning CaSoBe

LLV’s alluring accommodations and facilities also enhance the overall experience of guests at CaSoBe, which is recognized as a Highly-Commended Best Mixed-Use Development at the prestigious 12th Annual PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards.

Its dedicated events team ensures that all logistics and personalized touches are managed seamlessly so that clients can focus on their event's objectives. The resort's seaside locations serve as an unforgettable backdrop for events, enhancing productivity and recreation.

Offering diverse leisure and hospitality amenities, LLV makes the Landco BeachTowns, attractive beach havens, weekend getaways, work from a resort options and venues for events and conferences in vibrant beach communities.

Crusoe Cabins at CaSoBe, the refitted container vans turned into unconventional accommodations with modern amenities, is recognized as the first EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies)-certified resort in the country.


Other enticing facilities include the pod-like accommodations of the Cocoons with murals of marine life, the newly-launched Chairman’s Cabin and lighthouse, Apollo and Cupola; Aquaria Water Park with three-story slides; the 300-capacity the Canopy events space; and Sands and Captain Barbozza restaurant.

The beachfront Chairman’s Cabin has exceptional features curated and customized for Metro Pacific Investments Corporation Chairman and CEO and concurrent Landco Pacific Chairman Mr. Manuel V. Pangilinan. The 300-sqm villa’s common areas and rooms except for the private suite of Mr. Pangalinan, is available for guests from Monday to Thursday only.

The CaSoBe Lighthouse standing over 5 storeys high with a 360-degree viewing deck, is the sprawling property’s newest landmark. It serves as a beacon to guide residents, tourists, and visitors to CaSoBe as the place they can call home.

For the adventurous travelers, another choice is the Cupola, a one-of-a-kind geodesic and dome-shaped accommodation with its own toilet and bath, and private jacuzzi. Taking glamping up a notch, five units of Cupola are available for a luxurious beach getaway.

Condotel Facilities and Amenities for the Adventurous at The Nautilus

The Nautilus showcases a myriad of facilities for residents, guests and visitors. There are The Captain's Table for lounging and light snacks, The Chamber conference room, The Abyss spa and Nemo's Grove for lush greenery at the ground floor.


At the 10th floor, Nemo's Den and Sanctuary for relaxation and The Engine Room for workouts highlight an impressive view of the seascape and skyline. There's also The Arcade, a billiard hall; Captain's Hideout bar, and Horizon Pool Deck with an infinity pool and double deck that feels like one's at a cruise line on land and Celestial Cuisine for comfort food in a modern Bohemian chic ambiance. A panoramic view of the seascape and sprawling CaSoBe awaits at The Observatory at the 11th level.


Other Condotel amenities include two RFID-enabled scenic passenger elevators plus a service elevator, Concierge for the residents and a separate Concierge for hotel guests, exclusive drop-off bay, 100% standby emergency power, CCTV monitoring for common areas, Wi-fi provision at selected common areas, linen room per residential floor, and a clinic, to name a few.

For more information about Landco Pacific Corporation and The Nautilus, visit their website or Facebook page.
Read More

The Digital Revolution of Pusoy Dos: Mastering the Game on GameZone

GameZone Pusoy Dos

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital entertainment, traditional card games are experiencing a renaissance, finding new life and audiences in the virtual realm. Among these, Pusoy Dos, the Philippines' beloved answer to poker, has made a remarkable transition from physical tabletops to cutting-edge online platforms. Also known as Filipino Poker or "Big Two," this strategic card game has found an ideal home on GameZone, a leading gaming platform that connects players worldwide for thrilling multiplayer matches and tournaments.

The Essence of Pusoy Dos

At its core, Pusoy Dos is a game that beautifully blends strategy, luck, and skill. Typically played with two to three players, it uses a standard 52-card deck, minus the Jokers. Deceptively simple: discard all your cards first or end up with the fewest cards. However, what truly sets Pusoy Dos apart and adds layers of complexity is its unique card ranking system.

This means that 2 are the most powerful cards in the game, while 3 are the weakest. Having a high-ranking card, such as a 2, can be a game-changer, especially during critical moments when players aim to control the flow of the game. Whether you aim to seize control of the game or obstruct an opponent's move, strategically employing a 2 can provide you with an advantage.

GameZone's Digital Playground

GameZone's online version of Pusoy Dos represents a perfect tradition and innovation. The platform has meticulously preserved the game's core elements while adding a suite of convenient features that enhance the overall gaming experience. The digital adaptation allows players to enjoy Pusoy Dos anytime and anywhere, whether they're at home on their desktop they can access the website via their smartphone.

One of the most significant advantages of the online version is its multiplayer functionality. Players can connect with friends for casual games, join public matches to test their skills against strangers, or participate in high-stakes tournaments for glory and prizes. This global connectivity has expanded the reach of Pusoy Dos, introducing the game to new audiences while providing seasoned players with fresh challenges.

The Art of Combinations: Pusoy Dos Harmonies

Success in Pusoy Dos hinges on a player's ability to recognize, understand, and strategically utilize various card combinations. Mastering these combinations is crucial for dominating the game on GameZone.

Single Cards: The most basic play in Pusoy Dos involves laying down a single card. The highest card wins, with the suit hierarchy (diamonds, hearts, spades, and clubs) breaking ties.

Pairs: Two cards of the same rank form a pair. Higher pairs trump lower ones, with suit hierarchy determining the winner in the case of equal pairs.

Three-of-a-Kind: Also known as trips, this combination consists of three cards of the same rank. The higher-ranked set wins.

Straights are a sequence of five consecutive cards, not necessarily of the same suit. The highest card in a straight determines its ranking.

Flushes: Five cards of the same suit. When comparing flushes, the suit hierarchy is considered first, followed by the highest card if the suits match.

Full Houses are a combination of a three-of-a-kind and a pair. The ranking of the three-of-a-kind determines which full house is stronger.

Four-of-a-Kind: Four cards of the same rank, an extremely powerful hand in Pusoy Dos.

Straight Flushes: Five consecutive cards of the same suit, a rare and formidable combination.

The Royal Flush, the ultimate hand in Pusoy Dos, is composed of 10, Jack, Queen, King, and Ace of the same suit. The diamond royal flush reigns supreme as the most prestigious hand possible.

Strategies for Digital Domination

To excel in GameZone's Pusoy Dos, players must employ a combination of tactical thinking and adaptability. Here are some key strategies to keep in mind:

Prioritize Low Card Disposal: Start by getting rid of your weakest cards, such as 3s and 4s. This mitigates the possibility of ending the round with low cards, a potentially costly situation.

Strategic Use of High Cards: Reserve your 2s and high-ranking Aces for critical plays. You can use these powerful cards to block opponents or secure your victory in crucial moments.

Suit Awareness: Always keep the suit hierarchy in mind. Diamonds are the strongest, followed by hearts, spades, and clubs. Use this knowledge to break ties and control the flow of the game.

Timing is Everything: Know when to pass and when to play. Sometimes, it's better to hold onto strong cards for a more advantageous moment rather than playing them immediately.

The Future of Traditional Games in the Digital Age

GameZone's adaptation of Pusoy Dos is a shining example of how traditional games can not only survive but thrive in the digital age. By maintaining the game's strategic depth and cultural essence while enhancing accessibility and adding modern features, online platforms are introducing this Filipino classic to a global audience.

The digital version offers several advantages over its physical counterpart. It eliminates the need for a physical deck of cards and a dedicated playing space, making it possible to enjoy a quick game during a lunch break or while commuting. The automated scoring and rule enforcement ensure fair play and allow players to focus on strategy rather than logistics.

Moreover, the online platform opens up new possibilities for learning and improvement. GameZone offers tutorials for beginners, practice modes for honing skills, and the ability to review past games to analyze strategies. The global player base means that users can always find opponents at their skill level, providing a constantly engaging and challenging experience.


As Pusoy Dos continues to captivate players in its digital form, it secures its place in the pantheon of beloved online card games. The success of this digital adaptation demonstrates the enduring appeal of traditional games and their ability to bridge generational and cultural gaps. It's a testament to the game's intrinsic appeal that it can transition so seamlessly from bustling Filipino social gatherings to the vast digital playground of GameZone.

The digital revolution of Pusoy Dos on platforms like GameZone represents more than just the modernization of a classic card game. It's a celebration of cultural heritage, a showcase of technological innovation, and a bridge connecting players across the globe through the universal language of strategic gameplay. As we look to the future, it's clear that the harmonious blend of tradition and innovation exemplified by online Pusoy Dos will continue to shape the landscape of digital gaming, ensuring that beloved pastimes remain relevant and engaging for generations to come.

 

Read More

Get Your Sleuthing Skills Ready for Cozy Whodunit 'Magpie Murders', Now on Lionsgate Play

Tuesday, October 22, 2024

Magpie Murders

New on Lionsgate Play, Magpie Murders delivers double the mysteries and double the thrills — a must-watch for every detective story aficionado.

Is there anything cozier than curling up with a good mystery? If you're a fan of Agatha Christie or Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, then Magpie Murders, Lionsgate Play's latest addition to its library, will tick all your boxes. Adapted by author Anthony Horowitz from his bestselling book, the series follows two storylines: the classic detective adventure featuring the astute fictional sleuth Atticus Pünd, and the gripping real-world mystery tackled by editor Susan Ryeland — who finds herself neck-deep in a web of intrigue after the sudden death of writer Alan Conway, the author of the Atticus Pünd books.

This mystery-within-a-mystery offers a playful twist on the detective genre that's as smart as it is entertaining. Lesley Manville (Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris) brings Susan Ryeland to life with her trademark wit and warmth, making her a charming amateur detective. Meanwhile, Tim McMullan (Foyle's War) channels the iconic Atticus Pünd with grace and charm, drawing viewers into his every move. A gentle nod to Agatha Christie, this beguiling series is filled with red herrings and humorous moments that will keep you guessing until the very end.

On why he writes cozy mysteries, Magpie Murders writer Anthony Horowitz told Town & Country, "I'm not very interested in writing gory, violent, horrible stories. There's enough violence in this world at the moment for us not to need it. My books are meant to be — if not an escape, then at least sort of a refuge from the sort of storms that are blowing all around us... Murder mystery is an opportunity to close the shutters, to draw up the bed clothes, to make yourself that hot chocolate with marshmallows and sit back and like Sherlock Holmes, just revel in the intellectual pursuit of truth."

On the series’ amateur detective protagonist Susan Ryland, lead actress Lesley Manville told Salon, "[She] defies all the kind of stereotypical notions that people might have of how somebody of her age should act and conduct their life. I just love her. I'm so glad that Anthony didn't write her as a sort of 20-, 30-year-old something. It's just so great that she's got all this gravitas and experience and that she's just not conforming. It's terrific. We need to see more women on film across the board that represent women in that way, because you can still be quite exciting even though you're over 50, oddly enough."

Ready to crack the case? Tune into Magpie Murders when it comes to Lionsgate Play on October 25.
Read More

foodpanda donates more than 1,000 meals for World Food Day


Online food and grocery delivery platform foodpanda Philippines donated over 1,000 meals to various communities as part of its World Food Day efforts, reinforcing its commitment to fighting hunger and reducing food waste through its sustainability program, Let’s Do Our Pau-rt (LDOP).

World Food Day, celebrated annually every October 16th, is a global initiative spearheaded by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, aimed at raising awareness and promoting action for those affected by hunger. In the Philippines, the situation is dire, with approximately 3.95 million Filipino families currently struggling with involuntary hunger, according to the 2024 Social Weather Survey (SWS).

In response to this growing issue, foodpanda Philippines organized various meal donation activities for this month’s celebration of World Food Day. "We want to create a bigger impact by working with our stakeholders to combat hunger and food waste in our country," shared a foodpanda representative. "Our initiatives also encourage deeper involvement from our employees through these meal donation activities."

foodpanda employees lead Share The Meal donations 


The company encouraged its employees to donate meals for World Food Day through the ShareTheMeal (STM) feature in the foodpanda app. Launched in partnership with the United Nations World Food Programme (UN-WFP), the donation option is available to all foodpanda app users at the checkout page, with proceeds benefiting local communities.

“World Food Day perfectly aligns with our Hero Month celebration, which fosters volunteerism and social advocacy among our employees throughout October. We saw this as an ideal opportunity to make meal donations a meaningful volunteer activity for our employees,” the representative shared.

For October alone, the initiative raised more than 300 meals from foodpanda Philippines employees who donated. “This is a chance for our employees to be part of a collective effort for positive change, leaving them with a sense of fulfillment and purpose.”

Rescue Kitchen with SOS PH

Through its collaboration with Scholars of Sustenance Philippines (SOS PH), a global food rescue organization, foodpanda helps recover surplus food items and turns them into nutritious meals for redistribution to local communities.


For this year’s World Food Day celebration, foodpanda Philippines, with the support of its employee volunteers, cooked, prepared, and distributed 500 meals to beneficiaries in Marikina City.
   
The company also emphasized its dedication to sustainability and expressed its commitment to promoting a circular food economy, where surplus food is repurposed to reduce waste and fight hunger. “We always participate in the Rescue Kitchen activity whenever possible because it’s a win-win—helping reduce food waste while feeding those in need. Through these activities, we’re building a system where food never goes to waste, transforming surplus into nutritious meals for the community and creating a more sustainable future for everyone."

Feeding program for GenSan students


The company has also expanded its meal donation initiatives with a month-long feeding program in General Santos City. In partnership with the office of City Councilor Jose Orlando "Odjok" Acharon, foodpanda pledged to provide meals to over 1,000 elementary students in the area. 
 
The feeding program was launched last September at Ignacio D. Solis Sr. Elementary School. For the past weeks, around 200 to 400 children from the school, as well as New Guadalupe Elementary School, Shuttle Elementary School, and Sinawal Elementary School received meals, along with medical and hygiene support under the City Councilor’s Beat the Hunger Program. 
“Every year, many Filipino families face hunger and food insecurity. We want to continue using our platform to bring people together in the fight against global hunger and food waste,” the company representative concluded.

Read More

Here’s Why Vitamin C and Zinc are Important in Battling ‘Immunity Gap’ Among Kids

Immunity Gap

Ascorbic Acid + Zinc (Ceelin® Plus) strengthens children's immunity, whether they're sick or healthy.

Constantly worrying over your child’s health is not an overreaction, but simply a natural manifestation of parental love. When there is more than one valid cause for such concerns, however, it may be time to check and see if it’s a case of “immunity gap.”

Studies suggest that more and more children deal with “immune debt,” also known as the “immunity gap,” or the state of insufficient immunity response regardless of their health condition. When sick, for instance, the gap refers to children’s decreased levels of essential nutrients like Vitamin C and Zinc due to infections, affecting their ability to naturally recover from illnesses. Meanwhile, when children are well, the gap refers to an underdeveloped immune system resulting from the lack of proper nutrition, timely vaccination, and exposure to pathogens. This results in children’s higher susceptibility to infections while hindering optimal growth and development across all key growth stages and milestones.

Several factors contribute to the “immunity gap” phenomenon. One of which is the deprioritization of vitamin intake, wherein parents instead give their children therapeutic medications when they are sick, and other perceived alternatives such as milk and probiotic drinks when they are well.

The drop in vitamin usage and the rise in "immunity gap" among kids point to one thing: Vitamins matter, and so does the right choice. As the #1 doctor-prescribed immunity vitamin for kids, Ascorbic Acid + Zinc (Ceelin® Plus) serves as a partner of moms in helping address children’s immunity gap. The brand aids in strengthening kids’ immunity for their overall growth and development while keeping them healthy when well, allowing them to recover faster when sick.


Ceelin Plus



Ascorbic Acid + Zinc (Ceelin® Plus) helps provide children with strong protection with the powerful combination of Vitamin C and Zinc, which play important roles in nutrition and immune defense. A meta-analysis by scientific journal BMC Public Health shows that Vitamin C can reduce severe cold symptoms by 26%, while research by the United States National Library of Medicine found that Zinc helps kids with pneumonia recover faster and shortens hospital stays.

Moreover, Ascorbic Acid + Zinc (Ceelin® Plus) is the only brand made with patented unique ZincPlus® Technology that presents the stable combination of Vitamin C and Zinc, ensuring that kids get the right dose they need, regardless of how they are feeling. It also helps speed up recovery by boosting immune cells to fight viruses and bacteria when kids are sick. When they're healthy, it helps strengthen their immunity, supporting their growth and development during crucial stages.


If you feel your child suffers from an immunity gap, go for Ascorbic Acid + Zinc (Ceelin® Plus) to help strengthen their immunity to maintain overall health when they are well and quicken the recovery process when they are sick, together with proper diet and exercise.

Know more about Ceelin by following its social media accounts on FacebookInstagram, and TikTok.
Read More

NU East Ortigas: A New Horizon for Education on the Eastside and Beyond


National University (NU), a leading educational institution in the country, has officially opened its new campus in East Ortigas. The grand inauguration ceremony marks a pivotal moment for the university and was attended by Pasig government officials, NU academic leaders, students, and parents.

The symbolic ribbon-cutting ceremony was conducted by NU Chairman Dr. Hans Sy, President of SM Engineering Design & Development Corp Hans "Chico' Sy, Pasig City government officials Mayor Vico Sotto and Vice Mayor Robert Jaworski Jr., accompanied by his wife Mikee Cojuangco-Jaworski, NU President and CEO Dr. Renato Carlos Ermita Jr, and NU Executive Director Lee Tajonera, marking a significant milestone in the university's expansion.


The hand print ceremony also took place to commemorate the opening of the 8th  campus of NU. SM Group aims to expand to 20 campuses by the year 2028.

The Bulldog Exchange 


Another highlight was the Bulldog Exchange blessing and ribbon-cutting ceremony. The merchandise hub offers a diverse selection of products featuring the iconic NU Bulldog logo and colors. If you're looking for apparel, accessories, or novelty items, you're sure to find something  to show your NU pride.


Whether you're a current student, an alumnus, or simply a fan of the NU Bulldogs, the merchandise hub is the perfect place to shop for NU-branded products.

Expanding Access to Higher Education on the Eastside

Hans Sy

The establishment of the NU East Ortigas campus aims to expand access to higher education in the region. By offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, the university seeks to cater to the diverse educational needs of students. The campus's strategic location in East Ortigas will also provide convenient access to students from nearby communities.

National University has a long-standing tradition of excellence in education. The opening of the East Ortigas campus represents a continuation of this legacy and a commitment to providing students with a world-class education. The university aims to foster a culture of innovation, critical thinking, and lifelong learning.

A Bright Future for Students

The inauguration of the NU East Ortigas campus marks a new chapter in the university's history. With its modern facilities, experienced faculty, and commitment to academic excellence, the campus offers students a promising future. As the university continues to grow and evolve, it will remain dedicated to empowering students to reach their full potential.

Read More

Smart Money-Saving Tips for Filipinos This Holiday Season with Wise

Wise


The holiday season is a joyful but costly time for Filipinos, with expenses piling up for Simbang Gabi, noche buena, and family reunions. For overseas foreign workers (OFWs) and freelancers, managing these costs is even tougher due to the financial strain of sending money home or receiving payments from abroad, where high fees and poor exchange rates can eat into their earnings. Wise, the global fintech company, offers some money-saving tips to help manage your finances better this holiday season.

Set a Realistic Holiday Budget

Start by creating a clear budget for all your holiday expenses—gifts, decorations, food, and travel. Knowing how much you can spend helps prevent financial surprises, especially during the season of flash sales and unplanned gatherings.

Track each expense and include a buffer for last-minute reunions or extra gifts will keep you on track. Freelancers, who may experience fluctuating income, should also set aside a buffer for unexpected costs.

Save on International Money Transfers. High fees and poor exchange rates can eat into your earnings when sending money to your loved ones or receiving international payments.

A recent Wise survey found that around 3 in 5 of the Filipinos surveyed engage in international transactions at least once a month, yet 21% of them are aware of hidden fees like exchange rate mark-ups.

Many consumers overlook the two main costs associated with foreign currency transactions — the transaction fee and the exchange rate. Often, providers will offer a relatively low or zero upfront transaction fee, but mark up the exchange rate instead, which means customers pay more than they should due to the unfriendly rate whether it’s transferring money abroad, making international payments or changing money from one currency to another.

For OFWs and Filipinos abroad, Wise offers a more affordable and transparent option. When transferring money overseas, customers pay a single upfront fee, and the exchange rate they pay is the mid-market rate seen on Google - with no hidden charges. This transparency ensures your hard-earned money goes further, maximizing your earnings for you and your family during the holiday season.

In addition, Philippine-based freelancers can also use Wise to receive payments in multiple currencies with zero fees, and easily withdraw funds from their Wise Account to a local bank account or digital wallet like GCash or PayMaya, enjoying a fast and seamless experience.

Opt for Group Gifts and Shop Smart Online. Online shopping has become a go-to for Filipinos, especially during major sales like 11.11 and 12.12. Many shoppers are drawn to international sites that offer unique products or better deals. However, buying from foreign retailers often comes with hidden fees, including foreign transaction charges and unfavorable exchange rates, which can inflate your total spend. These extra costs add up, especially when you’re purchasing gifts for several loved ones.

One way to manage these expenses is by pooling resources with your family or friends for a meaningful group gift or organizing a “Monito Monita” (Secret Santa) exchange to keep gift-giving fun and affordable. Set a budget limit to avoid financial strain and focus on practical, thoughtful gifts, like a kitchen gadget for your parents or a shared holiday experience.

To save more during your holiday shopping, it's important to be mindful of the fees your card provider charges. Traditional credit cards often come with 1% to 3% foreign transaction fees and unclear exchange rates, which can add up. Another thing to watch out for is Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC), where merchants can offer to charge you in your home currency instead of the store’s local currency at checkout. While paying in your home currency, PHP, may seem more convenient, it often comes with hidden fees and unfavourable exchange rates, so make sure always pay in the local currency. One way to avoid foreign transaction costs is by using a service that offers transparent, low fees, like the Wise multi-currency account. With Wise, you can shop from international retailers and pay in local currencies at the mid-market exchange rate. This means no hidden fees and a clear understanding of what you’re spending. It’s a simple way to make your money go further this holiday season.

Cut Down on Holiday Travel Expenses. The holiday season is a cherished time for many Filipinos to reunite with family or take a well-deserved break. But as travel expenses can quickly add up, especially for international trips, it’s important to find ways to stretch your budget.

Booking flights and accommodations early is a great way to secure the best deals. If you're planning to travel abroad, the Wise card can be a useful companion, allowing you to spend in over 160 countries at the mid-market exchange rate, without hidden fees.

The holiday season is all about celebration and family, but it doesn’t have to come at a high cost. By planning your budget, using Wise for international transactions and remittances, and being mindful of your purchases, you can maximize your savings while still enjoying the festivities. Follow these tips to keep your spending in check and have a financially stress-free holiday season.

Wise is licensed and regulated by the Bangko Sentral Ng Pilipinas (BSP) and ensures full compliance with local regulations. For more information on how Wise can help you manage your money, visit www.wise.com.
Read More
...