December 30, 2025

Real or Not—A Tesla Cybertruck Giveaway at the Next Smartphone Launch?

Could this be the ultimate giveaway? The next smartphone launch has everyone talking.


Leading global AI smart devices provider HONOR Philippines is once again setting the tech community abuzz after teasing what could be one of the boldest smartphones launch surprises yet—a Tesla Cybertruck possibly up for grabs. If confirmed, it would be a bold statement of the brand’s fearless approach to innovation and engagement.

Known for pushing boundaries and redefining expectations, HONOR Philippines has ignited online conversations with a cryptic reveal that blends mobile innovation with an icon of futuristic mobility. While details remain tightly under wraps, the teaser alone has sparked widespread speculation among HONOR fans, media, and tech enthusiasts nationwide.

The rumored Cybertruck giveaway hints at more than just a prize—it reflects HONOR’s commitment to bold innovation, fearless thinking, and delivering experiences that go beyond the smartphone itself. From record-breaking feats to disruptive product launches, HONOR Philippines has consistently proven that it doesn’t follow trends—it creates them.

As anticipation builds, one thing is clear: this upcoming smartphone launch won’t be ordinary. Whether real or not, HONOR is once again challenging the limits of what consumers can expect from a tech brand—both on and off the stage.

The question remains: Is the Tesla Cybertruck set to headline the next HONOR smartphone launch, or is it all just hype?

Join the conversation and find out soon. Visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com, and follow HONOR Philippines on Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines) for exclusive teasers, launch updates, and big reveal.

Check out HONOR’s wide array of mobile phones, tablets, and laptops at any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores nationwide (https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/) or online via Shopee (https://bit.ly/HONORPHShopee), Lazada (https://bit.ly/HONORPHLaz) and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/HONORTikTokShop).

Jollibee makes Christmas season more joyful with “Buo ang Saya ng Pasko” campaign as Simbang Gabi begins


Jollibee is celebrating the Christmas season with its biggest holiday campaign yet as Filipinos across the country welcome the start of Simbang Gabi with back-to-back treats. The Buo ang Saya ng Pasko (The Joy of Christmas is Complete) campaign highlights the many ways Filipino families and communities celebrate the season today, creating a more joyful December for customers nationwide.

“This Christmas, Jollibee wants to remind every Filipino that the true joy of the season comes from being together. No matter where or how we celebrate, what really matters is celebrating with the people we love,” said Dorothy Ching, Jollibee Philippines’ vice president for marketing. “Totoong mas buo ang saya ng Pasko kapag magkakasama tayo at pinagsasaluhan ang mga paborito nating mga pagkain.”

A group of people around a table with food

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A heartfelt film for the changing Filipino family

This year’s “Buo ang Saya ng Pasko” campaign features a touching Christmas film made in partnership with Forsman and Bodenfors Singapore. The film captures how Filipino families continue to evolve, showing real moments across different walks of life. It follows hospital workers sharing a Christmas meal during their shift, security guards bonding over simple food, couples treating their pets like family, single parents enjoying time with their children, and large families reuniting across generations.

Jollibee said the film celebrates the idea that while traditions change, the spirit of love and connection that defines a Filipino Christmas remains strong.

Joyful Christmas Stores illuminate the nation

Now on its third year, Jollibee’s Joyful Christmas Stores have returned brighter and bigger. This 2025 season marks the largest rollout to date, with 300 decorated branches nationwide. Each store features festive lights and community inspired touches to bring happiness to neighborhoods, including areas affected by recent calamities.

Customers may locate these decorated stores through the Jolly Christmas Tours digital map powered by Google.

A cell phone with a map and a phone with a map

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A new nationwide celebration for Simbang Gabi

To bring the Christmas spirit to communities early, Jollibee launched the first ever Christmas JOY Day during the opening of Simbang Gabi. The brand joined dawn masses in select Manila churches such as San Agustin Church, Our Lady of Remedies Parish, Sta. Ana Church, and San Fernando de Dilao Parish (Paco Church). Churchgoers received free Jollibee treats as part of the nationwide countdown.

The celebration continued in select schools like Pinaglabanan Elementary School in San Juan, Kapt. Jose Cardones Integrated School in Taguig, and St. Mary’s Elementary School in Marikina. Students received Jollibee Kids Values Books and treats for free, bringing early Christmas cheer to young learners. 

New offerings that complete holiday gatherings

Inside the stores, customers can get their hands on the Christmas Bundle, available nationwide for ₱399, which includes a collectible Jollibee Bag Charm and items like Chicken Fillet with Pepper Cream Sauce and Jolly Spaghetti, offering a festive treat for the whole family. Promo runs until December 31, 2025.

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Customers can also enjoy the new Family Super Meals, starting at ₱599, perfect for Noche Buena, featuring Chickenjoy, rice, drinks, and sides. Jollibee is also expanding its Christmas Big Order Service, making holiday celebrations easier for families, offices, schools, and communities looking for delicious, hassle-free party food.

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Celebrating the Filipino spirit of togetherness

Through its inspiring film, festive store transformations, special on-ground activations, and exciting holiday offerings, Jollibee hopes to bring families and communities closer this December. The brand said its “Buo ang Saya ng Pasko” campaign reinforces a simple message: Christmas joy feels complete when it is shared with the people we love.

Whether people gather in churches, schools, workplaces, homes, or their favorite Jollibee store, the brand aims to make every moment of the season more joyful and meaningful for Filipinos everywhere.

Craving more Jollibee treats and exclusives? Head to www.jollibee.com.ph for the latest updates, order your favorites at https://order.jollibee.com/, and follow us on social media for more JOYful surprises!

December 29, 2025

Ring in the New Year with Irresistible feasts at City of Dreams Manila’s signature restaurants

To usher in the New Year, City of Dreams Manila whets up the appetite for festive dining at its signature restaurants Crystal Dragon, Haliya, Nobu Manila, and The Café with special menus inspired by the spirit of the season. The Café and CenterPlay take New Year’s Eve events a notch higher as bands hype up the beat to a midnight countdown.

Crystal Dragon Festive Family Menu

The integrated resort’s signature restaurant for Cantonese and regional Chinese specialties continues to offer its seven-course Festive Season Family Set until January 1, 2026 for lunch and dinner at P36,000++. The menu, which is good for four to six persons, blends refinement, tradition, and seasonal signatures and consists of a combination platter of Wok-fried Green Lobster with XO sauce and Stuffed Tiger Prawn with spinach and crabmeat egg white sauce; and Double-boiled Abalone, Fish Maw, Dry Scallop and Stuffed Morel Mushrooms with chrysanthemum tofu in consommé.

Completing the Festive menu are the Steamed Live Sea Grouper in sour broth with fresh enoki mushroom; Shanghainese-style Braised Duck in caramelized five spice soy sauce; Sea Scallops Tossed with Celery Heart in pepper truffle sauce; Wok-fried Fragrant Rice with wild mushrooms and smoked honey-glazed pork belly; and Steamed Taro-shaped Lava Custard Bun.

Crystal Dragon is open from 12 noon to 11 pm daily.


Haliya’s Bagong Taon Menu

City of Dreams Manila’s restaurant for reimagined Filipino cuisine, Haliya thoughtfully curates a “Bagong Taon” a la carte menu available for dinner on December 31 and January 1, 2026.

For appetizer, Haliya entices with Pulpo Tocino with char-grilled cauliflower, pumpkin puree, roasted bell pepper, pickled kamias, mesclun, and microgreens. The restaurant’s creative take on Sopas is also offered, which deliciously combines sous vide chicken breast, sweet potato gnocchi, celery, carrots, and asparagus. The Beef Mechado is the menu’s pièce de resistance consisting of slow-roasted Angus beef tenderloin, potato truffle puree, chorizo salsa, and grilled eggplant. The menu’s dessert, Coconut Foam, a medley of crème caramel, persimmon, sugar palm fruit, mango, berries, kiwi, and coconut cream spuma (foam) is sweet welcome to the new year ahead.

Haliya’s New Year menu is available from 5 pm to 11 pm on both dates.


Nobu Manila Omakase and Sunday Brunch

A refined dinner awaits guests at the Manila outpost of celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s globally renowned restaurant, which puts into spotlight a five-course New Year Omakase menu available on December 31 and January 1,2026  at P6,653.57 net per person. The dinner menu commences with a chef’s choice of zensai, followed by a refreshing first course of a mouthwatering Octopus Sashimi with lemon, ginger and aji amarillo. It continues with a chef’s choice of assorted Nobu-style Nigiri and Wagyu Inaniwa Noodles with Japanese negi (leeks). Further exciting the palate are the next courses of Grilled Lobster with nashi pear, dry miso, crispy yuba (tofu skin) and chives, and Grilled Wagyu with truffle amazu ponzu, crispy onion, and truffle. The tasting menu ends with Watermelon Pavlova with meringue, fresh berries and watermelon sorbet.

The Café Buffet

Hyatt Regency Manila’s interactive show kitchen is making the New Year’s celebration exceptional with its December 31 lunch and dinner buffets, with the latter offering two seatings at 5:30 pm and 8:30 pm. A live band and a DJ rev up the mood at dinner leading to a special countdown at midnight.

The Café buffets tempt diners with Roasted Salmon Tuscana-style, Osso Bucco, and mouthwatering variety of premium meats at the churrasco counter, and alive teppanyaki station.


The carving station features an Herb-crusted Striploin for lunch, and Slow-roasted Angus Prime for dinner. In addition, freshly cut sashimi from a whole tuna plus a whole salmon at dinner are certain crowd pleasers, together with the irresistible seafood selection consisting of prawns, Chilean mussels, Manila clams, blue swimmer crabs, slipper lobsters, curacha, served alongside an assortment of sushi, maki, and nigiri. Not-to-missed are the signature dishes of various cuisines: Italian, Indian, Chinese, Thai, and Filipino, among others. An array of cold cuts and cheeses, a variety of holiday-themed cakes and confections, an indulgent chocolate fountain, and local dessert favorites elevate the New Year’s Eve indulgence.

Lunch is at P3,150, while the dinners are at P4,288 (first seating) and P4,988 (second seating). The package is inclusive of free-flowing house red and white wines, draft beer, soda, iced tea, juices, coffee, and tea.

CenterPlay’s New Year Countdown

Besides The Café, City of Dreams’ New Year countdown party is focused around CenterPlay, the entertainment bar destination, featuring adrenaline-pumping beats that start at 6 pm, climaxing at 11:30 pm as the clock ticks close to midnight from live, high-energy band performances of Part 3, Zyncxation, Eye Candies, and DJ Merlzie. CenterPlay makes available various countdown packages based on seat preferences, which all include party favors and a special media noche platter consisting of kinilaw na tanigue (Spanish mackerel ceviche), camaron rebosado (deep-fried battered shrimp), crispy lechon belly, and vegetable atchara. The countdown package rates start at P2,500 net for single-seats, inclusive of a glass of Heartcraft sparkling wine and P1,000 net consumable food and drinks from the bar’s  regular menu; P10,000 net for a VIP table for four persons, inclusive of one bottle of Heartcraft sparkling wine and P4,000 net consumables; and P20,000 for a VIP table of eight persons inclusive of two bottles of Heartcraft sparkling wine and P8,000 net consumables.

For inquiries and reservations, call 8800-8080 or e-mail guestservices@cod-manila.com. For more information, visit https://www.cityofdreamsmanila.com/en/whats-on . Explore more of City of Dreams Manila’s promotional offers, rewards, or instantly check Melco Club points with the new Melco Club App, available for free download on iOS and Android.

MMFF 2025 awards night highlights - "I'mPerfect" win Best Picture

The MMFF 2025 awards night saw "I'mPerfect" win Best Picture, with Vice Ganda taking Best Actor for Call Me Mother, and Krystel Go winning Best Actress for I'mPerfect

     Photo : MMFF FB

The Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) held the Gabi ng Parangal 2025 (Awards Night) on Saturday, December 27, at Dusit Thani Manila in Makati City, recognizing the year’s outstanding films, artists, and technical achievements. With the theme “A New Era for Philippine Cinema,” this year’s festival features eight official entries, reflecting a diverse mix of genres, narratives, and performances from some of the country’s biggest and emerging stars.


Here's the MMFF’s most significant highlights:

Major Awards Winners

Best Picture 1st: I'mPerfect

2nd: Unmarry

3rd: Manila's Finest and Call Me Mother

Best Actress in a Leading Role 
Krystel Go – I'mPerfect

Best Actor in a Leading Role 
Vice Ganda – Call Me Mother

Best Director 
Jeffrey Jeturian – Unmarry

Best Actress in a Supporting Role 
Odette Khan – Bar Boys: After School

Best Actor in a Supporting Role 
Tom Rodriguez – Unmarry

Best Child Performer 
Lucas Andalio – Call Me Mother

Best Screenplay 
Chris Martinez and Therese Cayaba – Unmarry

Best Editing 
Benjo Ferrer – Unmarry

Best Cinematography 
Raymond Red – Manila's Finest

Best Production Design 
Digo Ricio – Manila's Finest

Best Visual Effects Santelmo Inc. – 
Shake, Rattle & Roll Evil Origins

Best Sound 
Roy Santos – Manila's Finest

Best Musical Score 
Frederik Sandoval and Emerzon Texon – Manila's Finest

Best Original Theme Song 
"Sandalan" by Vehnee Saturno – Manila's Finest

Special AwardsWinners

Gat Puno Antonio Villegas Cultural Award  
 Manila's Finest

FPJ Memorial Award 
Bar Boys: After School

Best Float Award 
Manila's Finest and Unmarry

Gender Sensitivity 
Award Call Me Mother

Special Jury Prize (Best Ensemble)
I'mPerfect

Breakthrough Performance Award 
Zack Sibug – Unmarry

MMFF Hall of Fame Award -
 Best Actress Judy Ann Santos

MMFF Hall of Fame Award 

Best Production Award 
Ericson Navarro

Male Star of the Night
Will Ashley and Dustin Yu

Female Star of the Night
Bianca de Vera



I’mPerfect took home the Best Picture honor, with Unmarry and Manila’s Finest / Call Me Mother following closely in the top placements.

Vice Ganda made headlines by winning Best Actor for Call Me Mother — a landmark achievement for the comedian in the MMFF awards scene, with critics and audiences alike praising the performance and the film’s emotional depth.

Manila’s Finest emerged as the most decorated film of the night, sweeping multiple technical awards including Best Cinematography, Best Production Design, Best Sound, Best Musical Score, Best Original Theme Song, and the Gat Puno Antonio Villegas Cultural Award, highlighting its artistic and cultural impact.

The ceremony also paid a heartfelt tribute to National Artist and Philippine cinema legend Nora Aunor, who passed away earlier in 2025, honoring her enduring legacy in the industry.

Other highlights included Best Actress for Krystel Go (I’mPerfect), special recognitions such as the Gender Sensitivity Award for Call Me Mother, and ensemble honors, reflecting the diversity and strength of Filipino filmmaking showcased at MMFF 2025.

The ceremony was hosted by KaladKaren, Enchong Dee, Maoui David, and Michael Sager. The program featured special performances by The Voice USA champion Sofronio Vasquez, teen sensations Rabin Angeles and Angela Muji, and powerhouse vocalist Jona.


The MMFF 2025 nationwide screening runs from December 25 until January 2026.

December 28, 2025

Christmas moments, shot clearly on vivo V60 and V60 Lite

This Christmas season, heartfelt moments turned into stories worth keeping through the vivo V60 and V60 Lite.

From cozy Christmas tree photos to candid outdoor celebrations at night, the vivo V60 and V60 Lite showcased how powerful camera technology can preserve the warmth, joy, and emotion of the holidays.


Shot entirely on the vivo V60 and V60 Lite, these photos highlight how smartphones deliver clarity even in festive indoor and low-light settings. Christmas trees, nighttime celebrations, and spontaneous moments were captured with balanced exposure, sharp details, and natural colors.

Designed to bring flagship-level photography into everyday storytelling, the vivo V60 and V60 Lite allow users to stay present during celebrations while trusting their smartphone to capture every moment effortlessly- backed by the 6500mAh BlueVolt battery that powers through long holiday nights and Noche Buena snaps.

vivo V60: When a simple gift becomes the moment

There’s something quietly special about holding a gift before it’s opened. The soft glow of a Christmas tree, the subtle sparkle of decorations, and the anticipation in the air make the moment feel intimate and alive.

With the vivo V60, every detail of that quiet joy is preserved naturally. Its ZEISS-tuned 50MP OIS main camera, 50MP ZEISS Super Telephoto Camera, and Aura Light capture expressions, lighting, and textures without losing the warmth of the scene.


V60 lite: Christmas night, captured outdoors

Christmas celebrations don’t always stay indoors. The vivo V60 Lite is built to capture moments that happen after dark, handling glowing Christmas trees, street portraits, and everyday details with clarity and balance.

One set of photos was taken by Nash, a content creator and photographer, who spent Christmas evenings documenting the season around the city. From holiday displays to candid street portraits and quiet moments over a drink, his images reflect the authenticity of Christmas.


"The portrait mode on the vivo V60 Lite is amazing, especially with the AI Aura Light. We were celebrating Christmas outdoors, mostly taking night shots, and it captured everything beautifully," he said.

Equipped with its 50MP Sony IMX882 main sensor and AI enhancements, the V60 Lite delivers sharp, vibrant night shots that preserve natural colors and details, making it a reliable companion for spontaneous Christmas moments.

Beyond specifications, the vivo V60 and V60 Lite are built for ease and speed, allowing users to capture moments effortlessly as celebrations unfold. With this camera performance and smart AI enhancements, smartphones ensure that no Christmas memory is missed.

Starting at Php 14,999 for the vivo V60 Lite and Php 28,999 for the vivo V60, the devices are available at vivo concept stores, kiosks, and online via the vivo e-store, Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop. Get yours now until January 10, 2026 to get a chance to win a brand new Jaecoo J7SHS SUV.

As the season of celebrations continues, vivo invites users to keep capturing meaningful moments with the V60 and V60 Lite beyond the holidays.

A Look Back on How HONOR X9 Series Became the No. 1 Mid-range Smartphone in PH

It has now become a tradition for HONOR to launch its biggest hit X9 series every January


Leading global AI smart devices provider HONOR Philippines has dominated the mid-range smartphone market with its iconic and biggest hit smartphone market with its iconic and biggest hit HONOR X9 series. Started with HONOR X9a 5G in 2023, HONOR has been dropping hits after hit, literally. At this point, the new year's campaign of the viral phone series has already become a tradition.

“When we launched HONOR X9a 5G, we literally had zero expectations. What we had was hope and confidence in our capabilities, and then it exceeded all expectations. We did not let the success get into our heads; we just thought it was beginner’s luck. So, we leveled up with HONOR X9b 5G, and again it became a massive hit. Then HONOR X9c 5G came and it was our biggest feat yet, outdoing everything we’ve done in 2023 and 2024,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.

The HONOR X9 series has been synonymous with its exceptional durability, raising the bar year after year. What began with 5-foot drop tests evolved into a 50-foot intense drop test-- and this year, HONOR X9c pushed to the extreme, dropped from a helicopter hundreds of feet above ground, further proving its unmatched toughness.

“One can only think about how we can even top the past three generations of HONOR X9 series. We must admit, it has become a challenge at this point, but with the technology and talent we have at HONOR, it is indeed a good challenge. I’m very excited for everyone to witness what we have been planning for the past few months,” Cheng continued.

That unforgettable moment—when 264 brave participants dropped their HONOR X9c 5G simultaneously—earned HONOR a coveted spot in the Guiness World Records for “The Most People Performing a Mobile Phone Drop Test Simultaneously.” This historic feat positioned HONOR Philippines as a benchmark in delivering credible, impactful messaging, reinforcing HONOR’s place as the standard for innovation, durability, and trust with the Filipino consumers.

The question remains, is HONOR ready to follow the success of the past HONOR X9 series? Stay tuned.

For more information and exciting announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines).

In the meantime, check out HONOR’s wide array of mobile phones, tablets, and laptops at any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores nationwide (https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/) or online via Shopee (https://bit.ly/HONORPHShopee), Lazada (https://bit.ly/HONORPHLaz) and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/HONORTikTokShop).

Android and iOS sharing made easy with vivo X300 Series


The most wonderful time of the year also happens to be the most share-heavy. From Christmas dinners to New Year countdowns, smartphones fill up fast with photos, videos, and memories waiting to be passed around. Yet for many users, especially those switching between Android and iOS, sharing files across devices still feels like an unnecessary holiday hurdle.

That familiar pause after someone says, “Can you send me that photo?” is exactly what the vivo X300 Series is here to erase.

With the arrival of OriginOS 6, the vivo X300 Series introduces One-Tap Transfer, a smart cross-device collaboration feature that makes file sharing between Android and iPhone refreshingly simple. No cables, no cloud detours, and no multiple uploads and downloads. Just a quick tap, and the moment moves with you.

One tap, two phones, and zero hassle

One-Tap Transfer works through NFC technology, allowing photos and files to move directly between vivo X300 Series and an iPhone. To begin, iPhone users only need to download vivo’s EasyShare app, available for iPhone 12 and newer models running iOS 17 or later.


Scenario 1: vivo One-Tap Transfer to iPhone

• Long-press to select photos or files on your vivo phone

• Gently tap the NFC area of the vivo device with the iPhone

• Choose to receive the files on the iPhone

Scenario 2: iPhone One-Tap Transfer to vivo

Method 1:

• Open Photos on iPhone

• Select a photo, tap “Share,” then choose EasyShare

• Tap the NFC areas of both devices to transfer

• Note: Live Photos sent via this method will be converted to non-Live Photos

Method 2 (recommended for Live Photos):

• Open the EasyShare app on iPhone

• Tap “Send Files” and select the files

• Gently tap the NFC areas of the iPhone and vivo device

• Files are transferred directly with Live Photos preserved

Why it's a game-changer this holiday season


The vivo X300 Series breaks down the long-standing wall between Android and iOS ecosystems. For iPhone users, it means receiving full-quality photos without relying on messaging apps or cloud links. For Android users, it delivers a faster, more intuitive way to share without compatibility concerns.

Together, One-Tap Transfer turns spontaneous sharing into a seamless, in-the-moment experience, perfect for holidays when memories are made and shared in real time.

Because during Christmas and New Year celebrations, the last thing anyone needs is a file transfer delay.

Share more, stress less

Experience effortless sharing with the vivo X300 Series, now available starting at Php 67,999 at vivo concept stores nationwide and online via the vivo e-store and Shopee.

This season, let your memories travel as easily as the moments themselves, only with vivo X300 Series.

December 27, 2025

Security Bank Foundation and JVRFI deliver new classrooms to Tarlac National High School

More than 10,000 students at Tarlac National High School (TNHS) will benefit from safer, more conducive learning spaces following the turnover of a newly constructed two‑storey, 10-classroom building by Security Bank Foundation, Inc. (SBFI), with one classroom sponsored by the Jesus V. Del Rosario Foundation, Inc. (JVRFI).

Turnover ceremony of the 2-storey classroom building at Tarlac National High School, led by Security Bank Foundation Chairman Rafael Simpao, Jr. and Jesus V. Del Rosario Foundation Executive Director Kana Manglapus

The turnover ceremony was led by SBFI Chairman Rafael Simpao, Jr. and JVRFI Executive Director Kana Manglapus, together with school officials, local partners, and members of the Security Bank community.

One of the oldest and largest public secondary schools in the country, TNHS has long grappled with overcrowding and limited classroom space. Despite these challenges, the school continues to produce high-performing students and runs inclusive education programs serving out-of-school youth, young mothers, working adults, and learners in correctional facilities under the leadership of Principal Yolanda Gonzales, recently recognized as the Best Principal of the Year at the 26th World School Summit in London.

"The outstanding performance of Tarlac National High School offers a ray of hope for a better Philippines,” said Rafael Simpao, Jr., SBFI Chairman. “Under the remarkable leadership of Principal Gonzales, we see how public schools—when given the right support—can stand shoulder to shoulder with the world’s best and help shape a brighter future for our youth.”

The newly completed building is dedicated to THNS’ Special Program in Sports, providing student-athletes with a safe environment where they can pursue both academic and athletic excellence.

“This new facility shows what is possible when vision, care, and opportunity come together,” said Principal Gonzales. “With this support, even the biggest challenges can be transformed into success stories—for our students and for our community.”

Jane Canlas, Branch Manager at Security Bank Tarlac- Tañedo and a proud TNHS alumna, also expressed her appreciation for the project. “It is both an honor and a privilege to now represent Security Bank in giving back to my alma mater,” Canlas said. “This donation reflects our commitment to empowering communities through education, and it is deeply meaningful to see it benefit the school where my own foundation was built.”

To date, Security Bank Foundation has donated 887 classrooms to 151 schools across 91 cities and municipalities nationwide, helping create safer, more supportive learning environments for Filipino students.

Learn more about Security Bank Foundation’s education initiatives by visiting https://www.securitybank.com/foundation/

Don’t Let Grinches Steal Your Data: Samsung Galaxy A Series Offers Essential Security for the Holiday Rush


The holiday season is a time for sharing photos, snagging the best online deals, and traveling to see loved ones. However, it is also the busy season for hackers and data thieves looking to exploit the uptick in digital activity. Between checking bank accounts using the public mall Wi-Fi and downloading new shopping apps, personal information—like passwords, credit card numbers, and location data—is more exposed than usual. Do not fret as Samsung is helping consumers stay one step ahead with the security-first Galaxy A series, featuring the Galaxy A56 5G, Galaxy A36 5G, Galaxy A26 5G, Galaxy A17 5G | LTE, and Galaxy A07 LTE.


Holidays made joyful and secure with the Galaxy A series

You do not need a premium budget to get premium protection during this vulnerable time of year. The new Galaxy A series brings Samsung Knox Vault to more people than ever, acting as a digital safe inside the phone. By using a dedicated processor and memory to isolate sensitive information like PINs and biometrics from the rest of the device, Samsung Knox Vault ensures that even if the main system is compromised, a user's most private data remains under lock and key.

To combat the human mistakes that often happen during the holiday rush—such as clicking a suspicious link or misplacing a device in a crowded shop—the Galaxy A series includes intelligent, real-time defenses. The Auto Blocker feature acts as a vigilant security guard by automatically stopping unauthorized apps from being installed and blocking malicious activity. Meanwhile these devices are also equipped with advanced Theft Protection, which allows users to remotely lock their screens and requires biometric authentication to prevent unauthorized access by strangers.

Beyond the immediate holiday threats, Samsung is committed to ensuring that a user's digital life stays defended for years to come. A phone should stay safe long after the decorations are put away, which is why the Galaxy A series offers an industry-leading 6 years of security updates and 6 generations of Android OS upgrades. This long-term commitment transforms these devices from a simple holiday purchase into a smart, lasting investment in personal privacy and peace of mind.

Be secure and awesome this season of giving

Enjoy a truly worry-free experience with a smartphone you will be proud to own and happy to share. Gifting awesome is now stress-free with 30% off Samsung Care+ for total peace of mind, plus convenient 0% installment plans via Home Credit or Samsung Finance+. Celebrate with incredible perks including up to 30% off select Galaxy Wearables, free double storage upgrades worth ₱2,000 on the Galaxy A56 5G and Galaxy A36 5G, and trade-in discounts up to ₱1,000 on the Galaxy A07 and A17 series. You will even receive a free travel adapter with select models to keep your holidays fully charged. These festive, worry-free offers are valid until December 31, 2025, so hurry and wrap up the perfect gift today through the links below:








For more info, visit Samsung’s official website at www.samsung.com/ph and newsroom at https://news.samsung.com/ph/.

Terms and conditions apply. DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-238565, 239234, 241251, 237872, 239359, 242789 Series of 2025.

5 Stranger Things moments that hit close to home

Stream the final season (or rewatch the entire saga) this holiday season only with PLDT Home Fiber Netflix Plan 1599


When you think of Stranger Things, you probably picture Demogorgons, epic 80s fashion, and Kate Bush saving the day. But every real Stranger Things fan knows that at its core, without the monsters and the mayhem, the hit series is a story about love.

From the first flicker of the Byer’s iconic Christmas lights back in 2016 to the most recent heart-stopping moments in its top-trending fifth season, the Duffer Bros’ entire masterpiece is a testament to the power of family, friendship, and sheer courage combined. Here’s a recap of the best moments that truly stick – the ones that remind us why we root for our band of everyday heroes and why they always find a way to survive.

Spoiler alert!


1. Finding the light (Season 1, Episode 3: “Holly, Jolly”)

One of the show’s first iconic moments goes all the way back to its premiere run. After days of grieving and being told she’s delusional, Joyce Byers (Winona Ryder) finally connects with her missing son Will (Noah Schnapp) from the Upside Down. Using a wall covered in painted letters and tangled Christmas lights, she realizes the terrifying, beautiful truth: Will is alive.

This scene is the genesis of the show’s central theme: family ties transcend dimensions. Joyce refuses to accept the world's logic, relying purely on a mother’s intuition. Her fierce, protective love for Will turns a mundane suburban home into a supernatural Ouija board, and herself as the medium. It's this devil-may-care display of unconditional love that grounds the entire series in emotional reality.


2. Billy’s redemption (Season 3, Episode 8: “The Battle of Starcourt”)

Billy Hargrove (Dacre Montgomery) is introduced as a bully on campus and a volatile stepbrother at home. But possessed by the Mind Flayer, he finds himself face-to-face with Eleven (Millie Bonnie Bongiovi). When El reaches into his memories and reminds him of his loving mother, he breaks free of the Flayer’s control for a precious moment and sacrifices himself, taking the brunt of the monster’s attack to save El and the rest of the kids.

This unexpected act of heroism is a devastating lesson in compassion. It proves that even the most damaged person has a core of pure good that can be awakened by love – in this case, El’s empathy and his own lingering childhood memory. It’s a tragic, powerful conclusion to his character arc that reinforces that anyone, even a villain, can choose to be an everyday hero.


3. Max’s run to “Dear Billy” (Season 4, Episode 4: “Dear Billy”)

Trapped in Vecna’s (Jamie Campbell Bower) psychic prison, Max Mayfield (Sadie Sink) is moments from death. As Vecna feasts on her grief, Max’s friends – Mike (Finn Wolfhard), Dustin (Gaten Matarazzo), Lucas (Caleb McLaughlin), and Steve (Joe Keery) – race against time in the real world to play her favorite song, Kate Bush’s iconic “Running Up That Hill.” Hearing the music, a lifeline thrown by the power of friendship, she finds the strength to run, breaking Vecna’s hold and rocketing back to her body.

This scene is the ultimate affirmation of love as the driving force, on top of being a fantastic musical sequence. (It has become legendary in the real world, too, inspiring so many memes online!) Max is saved not by superpowers, but by the determined, loud, physical devotion of her friends. It showed that even when facing down ultimate trauma, you are never truly alone if you have your chosen family to pull you back.


4. Hopper’s letter to Eleven (Season 3, Episode 8: “The Battle of Starcourt”)

Following Chief Jim Hopper’s (David Harbour) presumed death in the Starcourt Mall explosion, Joyce finds the heartfelt speech he wrote for Eleven and Mike – a letter he planned to use to talk to them about navigating coming of age, setting boundaries, and growing up. The contents of the letter are read aloud in a tear-jerking voiceover.

Though he's gone, Hopper's voice echoes the difficulty of fatherhood and the universal truth of letting go. His message to El about keeping the door open three inches shows the complexity of their unique family ties and his struggle to protect her while allowing her to grow. It’s a bittersweet moment that defines their bond, only to be made sweeter when they finally reunite later in Season 4.


5. Will's new power and Mike's pep talk (Season 5, Part 1: "Sorcerer")

As the final confrontation begins in Part 1 of Season 5, Will struggles with the emotional weight of his lifelong connection to Vecna. Just before the group attempts a risky tunnel mission, Mike pulls Will aside to remind him that his power – his empathy, his ability to feel the danger – is an innate, sorcerer-like strength, not a weakness.

This pep talk, coupled with Robin's earlier advice to Will, unlocks a new ability in Will, allowing him to telepathically command Demogorgon-like entities during the subsequent battle. This scene is the ultimate payoff for Will's long journey of coming of age and the "chosen family" theme. Will had felt sidelined and traumatized, but Mike’s unconditional love and belief transformed his greatest fear – his connection to the Upside Down – into his greatest strength. It’s a powerful moment of emotional validation where friendship quite literally saves the day and turns a survivor into a champion.

Relive all of heartwrenching moments of love and friendship from Stranger Things, now on its fifth and final season. Stream Stranger Things on Netflix and enjoy more unli-entertainment only with PLDT Home Fiber Netflix, the most value-packed internet & entertainment plan with a complimentary Netflix Basic subscription. To learn more and apply for a PLDT Home Fiber Netflix Plan 1599, visit pldthome.com/fiber-netflix



Photo credits: Netflix

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