SOCIAL MEDIA

Embrace Pumpkin Spice Latte Season in the Philippines with These Autumn Vibes Movies

Monday, November 04, 2024

Sure, we live in the tropics, but who says we can't enjoy the cozy vibes of autumn? With the weather cooling down, it's the perfect excuse to curl up with a hot drink and indulge in some cozy autumnal films. Here's a lineup of movies on Lionsgate Play that'll get you in that pumpkin spice and everything nice mood—no matter where you are.

Twilight

Twilight

Remember when vampires were all the rage? Watching Twilight today is a nostalgic trip back to the 2000s, but it also captures the moody essence of autumn. With Forks's misty forests and overcast skies, you'll feel the cool breeze through the screen. With Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson in the roles that made them household names, follow Bella and Edward as they navigate the complexities of love, the supernatural, and high school.

Silver Linings Playbook

Silver Linings Playbook

Looking for a film that mixes humor with heartfelt moments? Silver Linings Playbook delivers just that. Starring Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper, this movie offers a fresh perspective on mental health, relationships, and finding your own silver lining. About a bipolar man trying to get his life back on track after his marriage falls apart, this is a movie that will make you feel all the feels.

Blind

Blind

Blind follows a novelist (Alec Baldwin) who loses his sight in an accident and rediscovers the world through an unexpected relationship with an indicted businessman's neglected wife (Demi Moore). This film explores themes of love, loss, and second chances against the backdrop of a charming autumn landscape. For anyone looking for an atypical romance, it's definitely worth a watch.


Stronger

Based on the true story of Jeff Bauman, a Boston Marathon bombing survivor, Stronger is a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity. Starring Jake Gyllenhaal, this film captures the raw emotions and struggles of a man trying to come to terms with his new reality. It’s a powerful and inspiring movie that will leave you feeling grateful for the little things in life.

Ready to get cozy? Turn up the AC, grab your favorite warm drink, settle into your comfiest spot, and head over to Lionsgate Play to experience these autumn vibes, right from home.
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Madiskarte Moms prove that passion and grit can lead to a successful business

Madiskarte Moms 2024 Winners

Women, especially mothers, who are entrepreneurs have proven time and again that they have the passion and grit to make a difference in their families’ lives.

“You work wonders in three different worlds: the world of home, your own personal growth, and the world of business. You're actually doing three times the work that men are doing,” said PLDT Chief Operating Officer Menardo “Butch” Jimenez, addressing the mompreneurs in the room during Gawad Madiskarte 2024 at Seda Hotel in BGC last October 19.

This is the third awards ceremony that Madiskarte Moms PH (MMPH) and PLDT Home have staged since the founding of the group in 2020.

Jimenez added that the true winners are the moms, and that this year’s awardees have inspired many moms to become entrepreneurs “and eventually our whole country will benefit from what the Madiskarte Moms are doing.”

Now with 191,000 members in the community, MMPH has indeed come a long way from its founding during the pandemic. This year’s awards are focused on sustainable practices, a commitment PLDT shares.

“For us at PLDT, sustainability is not only caring for the environment, but it's also about gender empowerment. This is the embodiment of gender empowerment because it allows women not only to dream, but to take action and to make a difference in society,” said PLDT Chief Sustainability Officer Melissa Vergel De Dios.

One of the most admired women at last Saturday’s event was Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) Chairwoman Ermelita V. Valdeavilla. She highlighted that authentic women empowerment is about uplifting other women, and that being “madiskarte” holds so much power.

“Madiskarte is a powerful word,” Valdeavilla said, and wondered out loud why there is not a single word in the English language that could approximate its meaning. “In English, it is translated as strategic, wise, smart, inventive, ingenious, resourceful, clever, witty, innovative, and proactive. Yes, it takes 10 English words to describe madiskarte.”

At last Saturday’s awards, eight women were highlighted as the embodiment of the word “madiskarte.”

Diverse businesses

Gawad Madiskarte 2024 received more than 100 applications, shortlisted 17 mompreneurs and their businesses, and awarded 8 mompreneurs in two main categories (Start-up and Scale-up) and three special awards.

This year’s panel of judges was composed of Butch Jimenez; Jonjon San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing, SM Supermalls; Tweetie de Leon, mompreneur, owner of TdLG Designs; Angelica Chongco, owner of Mayumi Organics; Pia Hontiveros, broadcast journalist; and Annette Gozon-Valdes, President, GMA Films.

For this year’s Diskarteng Angat category, the winners are Stephanie Morales, who put up a self-portrait studio called Pixellab (Start-up); and Ricca Cruz del Rosario, who started HTP Clothing (Scale-up) simply from the desire to sell her own clothes, and now sells about 30,000 pieces of clothing a month.

For Diskarteng Eco-Friendly, the winners are Melissa Blanca Moscoso for Xavier & Xandrie Start-up, which uses discarded katsa or discarded flour sacks and turns them into bags; and Bianca Mateum of Isay Bags (Scale-up), which upcycles waste into bags and storage items.

For Diskarteng May-Puso, Avon Tuazon Obedoza opened Bahay Ugnayan Educational Services (Start-up), an after-school tutoring service that frees up moms’ time after work for more personal time with their families; and Alona Bazar Laylo, who put up Jobiba Baby Diapers and Wipes (Scale-up), a low-cost, high-quality brand of diapers.

All six women each received P100,000 in cash, Lalamove vouchers worth P10,000, and kitchen appliances from Tough Mama.

In the special awards category, Jenilyn P. Sicabalo won the Entrepreneurial Spirit Award for her business MP Nieva Flower Shop, which grows the abaca used for bouquet wraps. She won P50,000, Lalamove vouchers and Tough Mama products.

Meanwhile, MK Bertulfo, founder of FH Moms, won both the Diskarteng Digital and Diskarteng Homebiz awards. Her business helps women in MSMEs participate in the digital economy, providing training and education in conducting business online, setting up e-commerce platforms, and other digital strategies. She won a total of P100,000 for both awards, along with Lalamove vouchers and Tough Mama products.

Every mompreneur at Gawad Madiskarte, and those who are part of Madiskarte Moms' growing community, have shown bravery and perseverance in running their home businesses. Time and again, they've supported each other in the journey to growth and success.

Join the community on Facebook and visit madiskartemoms.ph.
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Ben&Ben steers clear of negativity on new arena-rock anthem “Triumph”

Sunday, November 03, 2024

Ben&Ben Triumph

The explosive track serves as the first single off their soon-to-be-released third album, The Traveller Across Dimensions

Filipino band Ben&Ben heralds the start of a new era with the release of “Triumph,” the first single off their upcoming third album, The Traveller Across Dimensions, due out on November 29, 2024 via Sony Music Entertainment.

A massive rock anthem that defies sonic expectations, “Triumph” empowers listeners to work on quieting the voices inside their heads and not let anything or anyone hinder the progress that they’ve gained in reaching their goals and dreams.

The nine-piece act's very own Paolo and Miguel Benjamin penned the stadium rouser, which was deeply inspired by the difficult struggles that the band has experienced over the years, particularly the kind that "would leave you running on empty and wondering how much longer things would have to go on feeling so unbearably heavy."

The band explains, "Triumph is an anthem for those who are tired of being tired. It's the fight song for the moments we have to be our own cheerleader, our own support system, our own best friend, our own defender. Even in our weakest moments, there are times we may feel the need to manifest victory, to speak hope into ourselves that we can emerge through any struggle triumphant.”

With a more theatrical approach to songwriting and production, Ben&Ben's latest single achieves remarkable heights, driven by glam rock bombast and virtuosic instrumentation. It’s the first song that they've arranged and collaborated with their producer and friend, Ziv, whose expertise and skill added an invaluable layer of character and nuance to so many of their songs for the forthcoming album, including "Triumph."

“For each song in the album, we would spend a day or two essentially conducting a workshop or brainstorming process to find what direction the song is pulling us towards,” Ben&Ben reveals. "As part of the democratic process, each band member contributes their ideas for the song while Ziv synthesizes and streamlines everything to gradually shape the final arrangement. After we settle on a band arrangement for the song, we head to the studio where even more details are meticulously fine-tuned.”

Pivoting towards a more multimedia approach for the next chapter of their music releases, Ben&Ben conveys a new dimension of storytelling through a fully 3D animated music video.

Introducing the character of Liwanag, the titular traveler from their new album, the music video of “Triumph” essays the story in a way that will have the audience immersed and curious about her journey. The concept of the MV was conceived by Paolo Benjamin, alongside Miguel Benjamin and the rest of the group, in collaboration with the extremely talented folks at Puppeteer Studios.

“We wanted to stray from the more reality-based music videos we've done so many of throughout our career, and as kids who grew up lovers of animation, video games, and all things fantastical, we really believe that animation is one of the most compelling ways to tell a story,” the critically acclaimed band shares in a press statement. "We naturally gravitate toward supporting characters who possess their own struggles, motivations, and emotions. Sometimes, we may find ourselves relating more to fictional characters than we do to real-life figures, as it often feels like life is stranger than fiction."

Ben&Ben’s “Triumph” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. 


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Celebrate a Pawsome Holiday At SM City Taytay


Get ready for a paws-itively magical holiday season as SM City Taytay officially launches its Christmas celebration, “Santa Paws”! This pet-friendly event brings festive joy to families and their furry friends alike, promising a memorable experience filled with holiday cheer, exciting activities, and adorable photo ops.


Expect enchanting holiday decorations featuring giant gift boxes, twinkling lights, and, of course, life-sized holiday-themed pet decorations that make the perfect backdrop for your holiday photos. Whether you’re coming with family, friends, or your furry companion, there’s something magical for everyone to enjoy.

Capture Pawsome Memories with Santa Paws


SM City Taytay is a pet-friendly establishment. As part of the “Santa Paws” launch, the guests brought their pets and joined in the fun! Dressed in their holiday-inspired outfit, the super cute furbabies had a meet and photo-op with Santa Claus.

Celebrate a Pet-Friendly Christmas at SM City Taytay

SM City Taytay’s “Santa Paws” event is a heartwarming celebration of the bond we share with our pets. As the holiday season approaches, it’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy festive fun with the whole family, including your furry members. The event is open to all, and everyone is encouraged to bring their pets to enjoy a Christmas celebration that’s as inclusive as it is enchanting.


Bring your holiday spirit, your family, and your pets, and head to SM City Taytay to make this Christmas a truly memorable one. With “Santa Paws,” SM City Taytay is ready to welcome everyone to a season of joy, giving, and togetherness. Don’t miss out on this paw-some Christmas Holiday!
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Rich Bet Online Gaming Platform: Your Gateway to Exciting and Rewarding Online Gaming in the Philippines

Friday, November 01, 2024


Register and get 108 BONUS for free!!

Rich Bet PH, a leading platform in online gaming in the Philippines, is taking the world of online entertainment by storm, offering an unparalleled selection of popular games, easy-to-use features, and opportunities to win big. Whether you’re a casual gamer looking for fun or a seasoned player seeking thrilling rewards, Rich Bet provides comprehensive online gaming in the Philippines experience designed to entertain and engage.

Established in 2006, Rich Bet rapidly rose to prominence in the global online gaming scene, earning a reputation for trust and integrity that remains central to its operations. From the outset, Rich Bet has been committed to delivering an exceptional gaming experience. By offering a diverse selection of online gaming brands, the platform ensures that every player has access to an exciting variety of games, opportunities, and rewards. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or new to the scene, Rich Bet https://www.richbet.com.ph/ has something thrilling for everyone.

Diverse Game Selection for Every Player

Rich Bet offers a rich variety of games catering to all preferences in online gaming in the Philippines. Among the most popular options are:

Slot Games: A staple in the casino games world, Rich Bet’s slot games feature a variety of themes, from classic fruit machines to cutting-edge video slots. With stunning graphics and immersive gameplay, players are guaranteed hours of excitement.

Live Casino: Experience the thrill of a real casino from the comfort of your home. With games like blackjack, roulette, and baccarat streamed live, Rich Bet brings an authentic casino game experience right to your screen.

Sports Betting: Sports enthusiasts can dive into Rich Bet’s sports betting section, where they can wager on a wide array of sports, including football, basketball, and esports. Real-time updates and competitive odds make it easy for players to make informed bets.

Fish Games: A unique and highly entertaining genre, fish games on Rich Bet allow players to test their shooting skills as they hunt for big wins by capturing various sea creatures.

Poker: Rich Bet’s poker rooms are filled with action, offering multiple versions of the classic card game. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, you’ll find the right table to challenge your skills and win.




Easy to Play, Easy to Win

One of the defining features of Rich Bet https://www.richbet.com.ph/ is how user-friendly the platform is, making online gaming in the Philippines seamless for new and experienced players. With an intuitive interface and seamless navigation, new players can easily register, deposit, and start playing in minutes. The platform offers a variety of payment methods, ensuring secure and fast transactions.

Winning is made easier with frequent bonuses, promotions, and a competitive loyalty program that rewards regular players with free spins, cashback offers, and more. Rich Bet’s payout system is fast and reliable, ensuring players can enjoy their winnings immediately. Whether playing casino games or engaging in sports betting, the opportunity to win big is always just a click away.

Why Choose Rich Bet?

Extensive Game Library: With hundreds of games available, Rich Bet caters to all tastes and skill levels in online gaming in the Philippines.

Generous Promotions: Rich Bet offers attractive bonuses for both new and loyal players, giving everyone a better chance to win.

Safe and Secure: Rich Bet prioritizes player safety with robust security measures and encrypted transactions.

Mobile Compatibility: Play anytime, anywhere with Rich Bet’s fully optimized mobile platform. Enjoy all the excitement from your phone or tablet without compromising on quality.

Join the Fun at Rich Bet

Rich Bet PH stands out as a top destination for online gaming in the Philippines. With its diverse game offerings, exciting promotions, and user-friendly experience, players are guaranteed a thrilling and rewarding time on the platform. Whether you’re in it for the big wins, whether through casino games or sports betting or just sheer enjoyment, Rich Bet offers the best of both worlds.

For more information, visit Rich Bet PH and start your gaming journey today.


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Watch Eat Bulaga Live for FREE? It's Possible with PLDT Home WiFi

Wednesday, October 30, 2024


Remember your childhood when you would spend noontimes watching your favorite TV show Eat Bulaga?

Well, Eat Bulaga! has gone digital now, livestreaming on Facebook and YouTube during their usual Monday to Saturday timeslot. Now, you don’t have to miss a single episode of the kulitan and tawanan, even if you’re not in front of a TV! PLDT HomeWiFimakes it easier too because now all its FamLoad All Access gives1GB of data for Eat Bulaga! live steam from Monday to Saturday 11:30AM to 2:30PM.

Of course, there’s more to these PLDT Home WiFi Prepaid perks! Here are five things you need to know:

1. You can get affordable internet for as low as P99

Fast internet at home is now more affordable and accessible! PLDT Home’s FamLoad data packs go for as low as P99 for up to 12GB of internet for three days. PLDT HomeWiFi’sFamload All Access offers give families to options to choose data packages up to 186GB that’s good for 30 days.

2. You can get data packages that’s right for your family’s needs

The FamLoad data packages are super flexible, and you can subscribe to the ones that best fit your needs.

You can adjust to a budget and grab something manageable like FamLoad All Access 199 for 38GB for seven days if you just need to do some light browsing, streaming, or social media surfing. Or if you and the family have huge data demands for work, school, and play, then the FamLoad All Access 1149 package is the best for you! It has a total of 186GB allowing everyone to do what they need with 2GB all access every day, 1GB data for Eat Bulaga Live Stream and 100GB more data for worry-free internet use of the whole family. You choose and control how much data you spend at home.

3. You can use it to watch Eat Bulaga! every day

The great thing about FamLoad promos is that not only does it give you the data you need for work and school, but it also makes sure you don’t miss a single day of Eat Bulaga! Famload All Access gives 1GB data every day to livestream Eat Bulaga! from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Mondays to Saturdays, as long as your data pack is active.

4. You get free unlimited data for 15 days when you buy a new PLDT Home WiFi Prepaid device

For those who haven’t taken the plunge yet, PLDT Home WiFiLTE Advancedand 5G+ also make it enticing to get one: every new device comes with 15 days of unlimited data. That’s great value for your money right out of the box, meaning you and your family don’t have to wait to start enjoying fast and reliable internet at home! After the 15 days run out, you can then keep getting sulitinternet with the FamLoad All Access data packages.

5. It’s easy to subscribe to a FamLoad promo

You don’t have to run to any store to subscribe to a FamLoad promo every time you need to go online. While you can go to retail partners that have it available, you can also subscribe to a FamLoad promo anytime you need via the Smart App, as well as Maya and GCash, and other banking apps. It’s that easy!


Learn more about PLDT Home Prepaid Home WiFi  http://pldthome.com/homewifi.



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Power Up Your Everyday Tech Experience with these TechLife Gadgets


Check out these TechLife products that keep users ahead in the tech game

As technology smoothly fits into individuals' daily lives, TechLife stands out by empowering all types of users by understanding their everyday habits and making them more meaningful. These range from casual users to gadget geeks who prioritize top-notch accessories that enhance their experience.

Performance on the Move

The TechLife Notebook Series allows users to embrace a lifestyle that boosts overall productivity. Equipped with cutting-edge Intel i3 processors, 8GB RAM and 256 ROM or 512GB SSD storage, these lightweight notebooks provide smooth multitasking wherever work or play takes place. Whether working on projects or engaging in everyday activities, the TechLife Notebook accommodates a wide range of needs effortlessly. Available in two models, users can choose the TechLife Notebook featuring an 11th Gen Intel® Processor in Black for P24,999, or opt for the TechLife Notebook S, which showcases a 12th Gen Intel® Processor in Silver for P29,999.

Enjoy exclusive deals during the Lazada Payday Sale until November 1 only. Each purchase of the TechLife Notebook Series comes with a FREE TechLife Multi Sleeve Laptop Bag worth P399.

Aside from this, fans can get an extra 5% OFF capped at P300 when purchasing on Shopee. As a special treat, the TechLife Fam can score an additional P50 OFF when purchasing two (2) more TechLife products on top of the TechLife Notebook or TechLife Pad. Customers can choose from any audio, power bank or accessories from the TechLife Shopee store to avail this promo.

On the TechLife TikTok Shop, fans can redeem P1,000 OFF and get free shipping upon checkout.

Immersive Content Awaits

For the TechLife Fam who loves binge-watching from the comfort of their homes, the TechLife Pad offers the perfect solution. Boasting a vibrant display and immersive quad stereo speakers, the TechLife Pad enhances the viewing experience, ensuring that movies and every episode of any series are enjoyed in high quality. Whether relaxing on the couch or on the go, users can easily indulge and download content without interruption through its expandable 1TB of storage. The TechLife Pad is available for just P8,999 in Graphite Blue and Graphite Gray.

Buy a TechLife Pad today and grab special offers, including P350 OFF and a FREE pair of TechLife Wireless Earbuds on Lazada until November 1 only. With this promotion, users can transform their screen entertainment while enjoying exceptional audio quality.

The TechLife Fam can revel in a flexible payment option via Shopee via SPayLater option which offers up to 3 months at 0% interest. Additionally, customers can redeem vouchers to get 5% OFF capped at P300 for a limited time from October 28 to November 1.

When shopping on TikTok, users can claim P900 OFF along with free shipping vouchers from October 28 to October 31, making it an ideal time to buy the TechLife Pad and enhance their viewing experience.

Smart & Healthy Lifestyle

For health-conscious and tech-savvy users alike, the latest TechLife Smart Watch L1 is the ideal companion to achieve a smarter lifestyle. Packed with intelligent features, this watch includes comprehensive health and fitness monitoring, including heart rate, sleep analysis, and activity logging, providing valuable insights into the user’s overall well-being. Its Bluetooth calling support and advanced AI Voice Assistant Control also help keep users engaged while enabling hands-free task management with simple voice commands. Priced at P1,999, the TechLife Smart Watch L1 will be up for grabs at P200 OFF from October 28 to November 1 on Lazada. TechLife Smart Watch L1 enriches daily experiences, blending technology and health effortlessly.

Advance in the Tech-Game Today!

These TechLife products allow users to unlock their full potential while staying on top of their tech game. Shop for a TechLife gadget today and take advantage of exciting promos available at TechLife’s official online stores Shopee, and Lazada from October 28 to November 1 and TikTok from October 28-31.
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From Manila to the World: Filipino Dreams Take Flight with British Council IELTS

British Council IELTS
From left to right: Lianne De Vera, Thomas Aguila, and Hannah Velasco, past IELTS test takers now successfully living abroad.

 Filipinos often embark on journeys abroad with hopes of a brighter future, filled with anticipation and excitement. These aspirations often extend beyond personal goals, influencing families and communities in significant ways. Yet, the path to realising these dreams is often tackled with challenges, requiring resilience, determination, and the right support to succeed on the global stage.

For many, English language proficiency is key to unlocking these opportunities. Whether advancing careers, pursuing further education, or starting a new life, taking the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a critical step. The British Council, co-owner of the IELTS test, delivers the IELTS exam and offers support for individuals preparing for international assessments so they can adapt to a life abroad. Meet Lianne, Thomas, and Hannah—three Filipinos who successfully navigated personal and professional challenges to thrive in their new homes.

Dreams Beyond Borders

For Lianne De Vera, a British Council scholarship grantee and now the marketing communications head of a London-based non-profit, the dream was always to broaden her horizons. Initially believing her strength was in writing, her speaking skills surpassed her expectations after taking the IELTS exam and scoring higher in speaking than in writing. “Taking the IELTS felt like a stamp of validation. It gave me the confidence to engage with my peers and professors,” she said. Earning a scholarship through the British Council's IELTS Prize further motivated her to hone her skills in her field. “The IELTS was an eye-opener. I’m not particularly an extrovert, and I’m not comfortable speaking in public, but I did well with my speaking, showing me that I could surprise myself,” Lianne shared.

Moving to Canada to work as a nurse was a long-standing goal according to Thomas Aguila. This also required the right credentials. His employer and the academic institution where he is completing his degree units easily recognised his IELTS certification because it was from the British Council. "If I had taken another test, I think the outcome would’ve been different," he explained. "The process was much smoother, and I got my results quickly from the British Council." He added that improving his English skills also helped him be more attuned to his patients' needs and adapt to the foreign environment.

Meanwhile, after years of navigating the paperwork to move to Bermuda, Hannah Velasco took the leap to relocate from her hometown of Dagupan three years ago. It was an adjustment that pushed her out of her comfort zone, but it led to fulfilling experiences that extended beyond her career. "Talking to people from different cultures has been one of the most rewarding experiences for me," she said. "Improving English through the IELTS not only made me more fluent, but it also broke down barriers. I gained friends and insights into their cultures, which made my transition smoother." Beyond her life as a nurse, the skills she gained through her IELTS journey helped her adapt to a foreign community.

A Stepping Stone to Success

The IELTS journey also provides individuals with the skills needed to create life-altering experiences. As Lianne shared, "IELTS opened the doors for me to step into a new chapter, leading to career and study opportunities, as well as the chance to live here and raise my family."

Thomas echoed this, sharing how IELTS helped him achieve his dream of working abroad. After securing a healthcare role, he later received a scholarship in Canada with his employer covering his travel, accommodation, and education. "For the first time, I felt truly valued in my profession," Thomas said, reflecting on how the experience has created opportunities for him.

For all three of them, the difference in their IELTS experience came down to the personalised support that the British Council offered. "The test may be the same, but how they deliver it and the support given makes all the difference," Lianne said, likening her experience to a safe space for pursuing her goals. The British Council also provided tips on building a mindset ready for the exam, helping ease her anxiety. “The readily available resources and stamp of credibility are what make the journey more empowering,” she added.

The experiences of Lianne, Thomas, and Hannah show that English language proficiency fosters both personal and professional growth. For Filipinos seeking to thrive abroad, the British Council offers extensive support, from IELTS preparation to test-taking resources. With over 20 test centres nationwide and the IELTS Ready Premium, their comprehensive online preparation material, the British Council is committed to empowering individuals to achieve their global aspirations.

Are you ready to take the first step towards your international journey? Book your IELTS test today and seize the chance to benefit from our Early Holiday Promo this October! Register for your IELTS on computer and enjoy a 10% discount at our test centres in Metro Manila, Cebu, Davao, and Pampanga. Secure your spot now at https://www.britishcouncil.ph/exam.




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A Jose Mari Chan Musical "Going Home to Christmas" Premieres November 29


Premieres on Nov. 29, the jukebox musical brings iconic hits by the country’s well-loved composer!

There’s nothing as merry and bright as Christmas, and Repertory Philippines (REP) is making the season more joyous and meaningful as it premieres its first-ever original jukebox musical showcasing some of Jose Mari Chan’s most popular songs. Going Home to Christmas - A Jose Mari Chan Musical features a special selection of songs from his treasure trove of hits all brought to life by a powerful ensemble composed of talented theater actors and a highly esteemed team of celebrated artists.

With a limited run from November 29 to December 15 at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium in RCBC Plaza, the production showcases 22 of Chan’s most beloved hits such as Christmas in Our Hearts and A Perfect Christmas, newly arranged by acclaimed Musical Director Ejay Yatco. Under the direction of REP Artistic Director Jeremy Domingo and penned by REP stalwarts and Gawad Buhay award winners Luna Griño-Inocian and Robbie Guevara, along with Aliw Awardee Joel Trinidad. The musical weaves together the stories of various characters as they journey home for the holidays and discover the love that they’ve always carried in their hearts along the way.

From a couple on their second honeymoon to lovelorn best friends even to hardworking OFWs looking forward to being with their family, Going Home to Christmas paints a vivid picture of Pinoy holiday traditions the whole family can cherish. As the characters find their way home for the festive season, audiences will be treated to heartwarming moments filled with laughter, love, and a touch of nostalgia.

Capping off REP’s 2024 season, the production showcases a talented cast led by respected theater actors Carla Guevara-Laforteza as Pat, Lorenz Martinez as Arnie, Noel Rayos as Richard, Neomi Gonzales as Josie, Floyd Tena as JR, Mayen Bustamante-Cadd as Em, Neo Rivera as JD, Justine Narciso as Raya, and Carla Martinez as Lola. Joining them are Alfritz, Roxy Aldiosa, Allan Dale, Johann Enriquez, Naths Everett, Juancho Gabriel, Sean Inocencio, Rafael Jimenez, Gary Junsay, Krystal Kane, Davy Narciso, Sheena Lee, Pappel, Maron Rozelle, Basti Santos, Julia Serad, and Zid Yarcia. Mika Espinosa and Onyl Torres complete the cast as swings.

The production is supported by Franco Ramos as choreographer, Ohm David as set designer, Hershee Tantiado as costume designer, GA Fallarme as projection designer, Meliton Roxas Jr. as lights designer, and Aji Manalo as sound designer. The property designer is Julia Pacificador, while the production’s dramaturg is Davidson Oliveros. The technical director is D Cortezano, with Patricia Gregorio serving as production manager, Rafa Lubigan as stage manager, and Rio Tanchuling as assistant stage manager.

“I’m honored that REP, which is known for its decades of bringing quality theater to Filipino audiences, selected my body of work as their inspiration for this holiday production, which is their first-ever original jukebox musical,” shares Chan. “I’m always grateful that my music has brought so much joy to a lot of people. I’m excited to see all the stories and elements that REP has weaved together to add new meaning and life to these songs.”

“Every Filipino knows September 1 means hearing Christmas in Our Hearts on repeat, earning Jose Mari Chan the well-deserved title of Mr. Christmas. His beloved music adds that heartwarming Filipino touch to this season. It’s an honor that REP has received his full blessing to bring his celebrated songs to the stage, allowing audiences to experience the magic and warmth of his music in a new and dynamic way,” says Domingo.

“We hope to create a memorable experience that resonates with everyone who loves the Christmas season as we do. With Going Home to Christmas – A Jose Mari Chan Musical, we want to showcase why Christmas really is the most wonderful time of the year.”

For show buying and ticket inquiries, contact REP at 0966-905-4013 or 0962-691-8540, or send us an email at promotions@repphil.org or sales@repphil.org.

For updates and show schedules, visit www.repertoryphilippines.ph, or like and follow repertoryphilippines on Facebook and Instagram.
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Shopee 11.11 Mega Pamasko Sale: Empowering Content Creators for Holiday Shopping!


The holiday season is here, and Shopee, Southeast Asia’s leading e-commerce platform, is kicking it off with the much-anticipated 11.11 Mega Pamasko Sale. This isn’t just a shopping event—it's a celebration of Shopee's vibrant content creator ecosystem. Content creators now play a vital role in shaping our online shopping experience with genuine reviews, personalized recommendations, and engaging ways to discover products.

How Content Creators Drive Engagement and Sales

Content creators have transformed online shopping. According to Kantar's 2023 "Philippine Media Landscape" report, 60% of Filipino shoppers have made purchases after seeing a product recommended by a content creator. Shopee’s Affiliate Program is at the heart of this trend, rewarding creators with commissions on purchases made through their recommendations, building trust, and enhancing user experiences.

Sharlaine Andal, a Shopee affiliate, found success by sharing her Shopee purchases. "It’s amazing to share quality products with my followers and earn at the same time," she shared, highlighting the supportive community she's found with fellow affiliates. Shopee’s Affiliate Program has grown by nearly 600% over the past year, proving the power of creators in driving sales and engagement.

Innovative Platforms for Content Creation

Shopee is constantly evolving its tools to help creators succeed. Here’s what creators can look forward to:

Shopee Live: This live-streaming feature has grown by over 60% in viewership in 2024. It lets creators connect directly with audiences, showcase products, and foster a sense of trust and community.

Shopee Video: A newer feature that has exploded in popularity, allowing creators to publish lasting content that boosts engagement and conversions. During Shopee’s 9.9 campaign, Shopee Video led to a six-fold increase in orders.

One example of success is Maria Jhazelle (known as callieszn on Shopee), who has gained over 1.1 million followers by using Shopee Live. Her beauty streams are a hit, boosting daily sales by 62%!

Fashion Finds with the Shopee Experience

Fashion is one of the biggest categories on Shopee, where creators help buyers navigate sizing, fit, and quality concerns. Thanks to Shopee’s partnerships with big brands like Cole Haan, Lee, and trendy labels like Lovito and Tala by Kyla, shoppers enjoy a trusted, reliable experience with personalized product recommendations.

A Call to Join the 11.11 Mega Pamasko Sale

With e-commerce in the Philippines set to reach $30 billion by 2027, Shopee invites more creators to join the 11.11 Mega Pamasko Sale. Last year’s 11.11 event saw an 8x jump in new Shopee Live viewers, showcasing the growing enthusiasm for online shopping during the holidays.

What’s in Store for Shoppers?

Shopee’s 11.11 Mega Pamasko Sale will offer exciting deals, including 70% Off Holiday Deals, Free Shipping with PHP 0 Minimum Spend, and On-Time Pamasko Delivery. Don’t miss the 11.11 Rush Deals at midnight, 12:30 AM, 12 noon, and 6:30 PM, where you can score incredible discounts on items like the Xiaomi Smart TV, Dyson Airwrap, and Nintendo Switch. Plus, play Shopee Shake to win up to 1.1 million Shopee Coins!

Celebrating Content Creation in E-Commerce

Content creation has become a cultural shift, bringing together creators and consumers to shape the future of e-commerce. Shopee is proud to support this movement, giving creators the tools to succeed while enriching the shopping experience for everyone.

Follow @shopeePH on Facebook and Instagram for updates on the 11.11 Mega Pamasko Sale, and download the Shopee app to start your holiday shopping journey!
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