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

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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.

Celebrate Every Holiday Meal with El Real: Sulit sa Lasa, Sulit sa Presyo

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El Real brings you affordable, high-quality pasta dishes fit for every celebration.

The holidays are here—and for Filipino families, that means gathering around hearty, home-cooked meals made with love, especially during Noche Buena. It’s the most anticipated feast of the season, a time when families come together to share laughter, stories, and their favorite dishes. But with prices continuously rising, many moms are looking for smart ways to make their Noche Buena and other family celebrations just as delicious and meaningful—without going over budget.

This is where El Real pasta becomes the perfect kitchen companion. Designed for wais and determined moms who refuse to compromise on quality or taste, El Real offers value-for-money pasta made from high-quality wheat flour that’s expertly milled to ensure every dish turns out to be masarap, masaya, and always sulit.

Made for every type of cook and celebration, El Real’s pasta line comes in multiple formats—from classic spaghetti to flat spaghetti, elbow macaroni, party pasta, and even healthy variants—making it easy to create different dishes for any occasion. Whether you’re serving a big Noche Buena spread or a simple merienda treat, El Real gives you the flexibility to cook more for less, while keeping every meal consistently delicious.

What makes it truly sulit is that El Real pasta cooks beautifully—hindi malabsa, hindi bitin sa serving, and always firm and flavorful. Each pack promises the perfect texture that holds sauces well and brings out the best in every recipe. It’s this reliability that’s earned the trust of moms who want to stretch their grocery budgets without sacrificing the joy that comes from a comforting plate of pasta shared with family.

For Millennial moms who juggle so many responsibilities yet still want to give their loved ones the best, El Real offers reassurance: you can serve restaurant-quality meals at a price that fits the family budget. Because for these moms, making their family happy doesn’t mean spending more—it means making smarter, more thoughtful choices.

So, this holiday season—and even on ordinary days that deserve something special—let El Real be your partner in creating delicious and wallet-friendly dishes. And for even greater convenience, El Real also offers bundle packs with sauce, so you can easily prepare complete pasta dishes that are masarap, mas saya, at siguradong sulit.

El Real can be your trusted partner in creating delicious and budget-friendly dishes for your family this holiday season

Designed for wais and determined moms who refuse to compromise on quality or taste, El Real offers value-for-money pasta made from high-quality ingredients

DTI Bagong Pilipinas Christmas Village 2025 : Holiday Shopping with Meaning and Purpose

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As the countdown to Christmas begins, the Department of Trade and Industry, through its Bureau of Market Development, Promotion, and OTOP (DTI-BMDPO), invites the public to enjoy holiday shopping with more heart and meaning at the 2025 DTI Bagong Pilipinas Christmas Village. The festive marketplace runs from December 23 to 28 at the Megatrade Halls 1–3 of SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City.

Designed as a relaxed lifestyle destination, the Christmas Village brings together over 200 Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises from across the regions, offering shoppers a refreshing alternative to crowded malls and rushed gift buying. It is a place where holiday shopping feels intentional, enjoyable, and deeply connected to Filipino creativity.

Visitors can browse through thoughtfully arranged stalls featuring artisanal food, curated gift items, fashion accessories, wellness products, home décor, and holiday essentials. Each product reflects the craftsmanship, stories, and values of Filipino entrepreneurs, many of whom are family-run or community-based enterprises. The Village encourages shoppers to pause, explore, and rediscover the simple joy of choosing gifts with care.

Gifts That Feel Personal, Not Rushed

Today’s Christmas shoppers are increasingly looking for gifts that feel thoughtful and personal. The Christmas Village responds to this shift by offering products that are not mass-produced, but carefully made by Filipino MSMEs from different parts of the country. These items are ideal for gift exchanges, family gatherings, and presents meant to be remembered long after the holidays.

DTI Asec Nylah Rizza Bautista

DTI Assistant Secretary Nylah Rizza Bautista, Supervising Head of the DTI Competitiveness and Innovation Group, said the Christmas Village reflects what holiday shopping should truly be about. “Christmas is a time for connection and thoughtful giving. The Christmas Village allows shoppers to choose gifts with intention, while directly supporting Filipino MSMEs and the communities behind them,” she said.

With more than 200 MSMEs participating, shoppers can easily find options that suit different tastes and budgets. Each purchase becomes part of a larger story of support, resilience, and shared celebration.

Tatak Pinoy Finds for the Modern Filipino Home

The Christmas Village also highlights products aligned with the Tatak Pinoy strategy, which promotes Filipino-made goods that combine quality, innovation, and strong cultural identity. Many of the items on display show how local craftsmanship continues to evolve, blending heritage techniques with modern design and contemporary lifestyles.

These Tatak Pinoy finds demonstrate that Filipino creativity is dynamic and forward-looking. They show that local brands can inspire pride and confidence, making them natural choices for meaningful holiday gifting.

A Relaxed and Festive Way to Shop

Unlike the usual holiday rush, the Christmas Village offers a calmer and more enjoyable shopping experience. Festive décor, warm lighting, and well-curated sections create a space that encourages browsing, discovery, and meaningful connection. It is a setting where shopping feels like part of the celebration rather than a chore.

Families can browse together, friends can enjoy a festive stroll, and office groups can conveniently complete their gift lists in one destination. The atmosphere reflects the warmth and generosity that define a Filipino Christmas.

Capping a Year of MSME Market Support

The Christmas Village also marks the culmination of a year-long series of trade fairs and market promotion activities organized by DTI-BMDPO to support MSMEs nationwide. Throughout the year, these initiatives have helped entrepreneurs test products, refine branding, expand reach, and connect with consumers in various settings.

DTI Sec Maria Cristina Aldeguer-Roque 

As the final major market event of the year, the Christmas Village brings these efforts together in one celebratory space. It allows MSMEs to close the year with renewed visibility and stronger market presence, while giving consumers the opportunity to see the full range of Filipino creativity developed and strengthened over the past year.

Choosing Local as a Christmas Tradition

Every purchase at the Christmas Village helps sustain livelihoods and strengthen local economies across the regions. By choosing Filipino-made products, shoppers contribute to a more resilient MSME sector while celebrating the season in a meaningful way. 

DTI-BMDPO invites the public to visit the DTI Bagong Pilipinas Christmas Village from December 23 to 28 at Megatrade Halls 1–3, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City, and experience holiday shopping that is joyful, purposeful, and proudly Filipino. The Christmas Village stands as an uplifting reminder that Christmas shopping can celebrate generosity, creativity, and the shared spirit of supporting local enterprise

Filipino AC installers dominate the Midea Club Flash Installation Tournament 2025 ASEAN Finals

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Trusted global appliance brand Midea has successfully concluded the Midea Club Flash Installation Tournament 2025 ASEAN Finals, the largest and most prestigious professional air conditioner installation competition in Southeast Asia. Held in Foshan, China, the event brought together top installers from Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam, following months of national preliminary rounds with over 10,000 participants across the region.

Midea celebrates the installers who proudly represented their countries and won at the ASEAN Finals of the Midea Club Flash Installation Tournament 2025 in Foshan, China (From left to right: Jerome Pumaren (3rd placer, Philippines), Mark Kevin Peña (Master of Speed 2025), and Lui Kher Sze (2nd Placer, Malaysia)

Representing the Philippines on the regional stage, Mark Kevin Peña emerged as the Master of Speed 2025, earning the championship title and a $5,000 cash prize. Lui Kher Sze of Malaysia secured second place, while Jeorme Pumaren of the Philippines placed third. The Philippines also received the National Award, recognizing the outstanding overall performance of the country’s delegation.

With the theme “Master Speed, More Profits,” the tournament reinforces Midea’s commitment to elevating installer excellence, enhancing customer service quality, and raising Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) standards throughout ASEAN.

Following the competition, installers toured Midea’s Innovation Park and Guangzhou Factory, gaining firsthand insight into the technology, research, and engineering behind Midea’s AC systems. The visit emphasized the brand’s commitment to continuous learning, technical advancement, and deeper collaboration with HVAC professionals.

“This tournament honors our installers’ professionalism and dedication to service excellence,” said Sam Su, Sales and Marketing Director of Midea Air Conditioning. “Their work builds the trust that Midea customers rely on every day. We are committed to growing together and elevating industry standards across ASEAN.”

The Midea Club Flash Installation Tournament is an exclusive program under Midea Club, the brand’s dedicated installer and technician support platform. Through the Midea Club App, HVAC professionals gain access to training, certification, rewards, digital tools, and opportunities to participate in competitions like the ASEAN Finals. To learn more about Midea’s latest home solutions, visit the official website, follow @midea_philippines on Instagram and TikTok @mideaphilippines, subscribe to Midea Philippines Official on YouTube, and like @MideaPhilippines on Facebook.

Toshiba Celebrates 95 Years of Innovation with Exclusive Offers and an Exclusive Journey to Japan

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Toshiba celebrates 95 years of excellence and innovation with exciting anniversary deals and an exclusive Journey to Japan experience.

Toshiba Lifestyle, the global leader in artisanal home appliance solutions, officially kicks off its 95th anniversary celebration by launching its most exclusive nationwide promotion yet, offering customers the chance to win a spectacular, all-inclusive trip to Japan or a suite of Toshiba’s premium home appliances.

For nearly a century, Toshiba has perfected the art of Japanese quality, design, and innovation. In celebration of this enduring legacy, the brand unveils an extraordinary experience - a “Journey to Japan”. This grand prize is a perfectly curated trip to Japan for two winners and their companions, covering every detail: flights, luxurious accommodation, delicious meals, comprehensive tour packages, and even visa processing. Winners will get to immerse themselves in the rich Japanese culture and uncompromising attention to detail that inspires every Toshiba appliance.

The thrill continues beyond the grand getaway, as Toshiba extends the celebration to homes across the country with an exclusive appliance giveaway fit for its 95th year. The prizes include a full suite of Toshiba’s premium home appliances, from state-of-the-art multi-door refrigerators and powerful washer-and-dryer sets to innovative water dispensers and the sleek Japandi digital rice cooker.

Shoppers can also join in the celebration with unbeatable anniversary deals. Enjoy up to 35% off on select appliances, grab featured models at special PHP9,500 anniversary prices, and score exciting bundle offers starting at just PHP95. It’s Toshiba’s biggest celebration yet, and there’s never been a better time to bring home a true Japanese innovation!

Customers will receive one raffle entry for every single-receipt purchase worth PHP10,000 and above from participating authorized Toshiba dealers nationwide. The Toshiba 95th Anniversary Promo runs from November 15, 2025, to January 31, 2026, with the lucky draw to be held on February 12, 2026, and announcement of winners on February 18, 2026.

For a complete list of participating stores and full mechanics, visit www.toshiba-lifestyle.com/ph follow Toshiba Lifestyle Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

2GO Revamps Escolta Branch, Introduces First Retail Outlet with Cafe 2GO

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2GO, the Philippines’ most integrated logistics and travel solutions provider, has revamped its 2GO Escolta Branch located at the ground floor of AIC Center along Escolta Street, Binondo, Manila. The branch remained fully operational throughout the renovation, ensuring uninterrupted service while upgrading the space to better support the growing demand for travel, cargo, and express services in one of the country’s most historic commercial districts.

(L–R) Raymond Morales, Operating Manager, FedEx Philippines; Roland Sunga, Assistant Vice President for Food and Beverage, Ancillary, and Hotel Operations, 2GO Travel; Blessie Cruz, Business Unit Head, 2GO Retail; Rico Medina, Acting Senior Manager for Delivery and Pick-up Operations; and Janice Bugarin, Vice President and Head of Procurement, 2GO Group, Inc.

The branch enhancement marks the introduction of the first 2GO retail outlet with Cafe 2GO, a fully owned and branded café concept previously available exclusively on board 2GO vessels. Bringing Cafe 2GO to a ground retail environment provides customers with a more comfortable and welcoming space to lounge, wait, and conduct business while completing their transactions.

As part of the revamp, the Escolta branch also features a dedicated Cafe 2GO Training Room, designed to support onboarding, skills development, and continuous learning for 2GO team members. The facility serves as a central venue for barista training and capability-building programs across the retail network.

The upgraded space is also designed to function as a convenient meeting and collaboration hub, allowing customers, MSMEs, and partners to hold discussions, coordinate shipments, and make business decisions while availing of 2GO’s integrated logistics and travel services.

“Cafe 2GO was created to elevate the overall travel experience of our customers and bringing it into a retail setting allows us to extend that same experience on ground,” said Roland Sunga, Assistant Vice President for Food and Beverage, Ancillary, and Hotel Operations of 2GO Travel. “The dedicated training space enables us to continuously develop our baristas, refine our offerings, and ensure consistent quality across all touchpoints.”

Located in the heart of Binondo, the Escolta branch plays a vital role in supporting trade and MSMEs by facilitating the efficient movement of goods such as machinery, spare parts, textiles, and wholesale merchandise across cities and regions nationwide.

“This renovated location is more than a retail branch—it is a hub for MSME growth,” said Blessie Cruz, Business Unit Head of 2GO Retail. “Through this space, the introduction of Cafe 2GO, and our enhanced facilities, we aim to elevate customer experience while creating more opportunities for the communities we serve.”

For inquiries about 2GO services, partnerships, or training programs, interested parties may email retail@2go.com.ph.

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Holiday traditions meet city celebrations at Richmonde Hotels

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In Metro Manila, the holidays take on a unique charm when city lights shimmer like ornaments, streets buzz with festive energy, and local traditions blend seamlessly with the rhythm of urban life. It’s in this vibrant setting that Richmonde Hotel Ortigas and Eastwood Richmonde Hotel bring together the warmth of Filipino holiday customs and the excitement of city celebrations. This year, both properties present thoughtful stays and heartwarming feasts crafted for guests spending the season in the metro. From stylish commercial hubs to thriving lifestyle districts, each hotel offers a comforting retreat where merrymaking, convenience, and genuine hospitality naturally come together.

RICHMONDE HOTEL ORTIGAS: Timeless Christmas Charm in the Heart of Ortigas Center

Situated in the bustling Ortigas Center, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas remains a cherished choice for travelers and residents looking for a familiar and dependable place to spend the season. The hotel’s holiday room offerings—starting at PhP 4,500 nett—provide a soothing escape from the rush of December, whether for quick family get-togethers, restful staycations, or festive city celebrations. Special stays on December 24 and 31 come with inclusions to make the holiday experience extra ordinary. 

The Christmas Eve room rate with breakfast buffet is priced from PhP 6,200 nett, and the full package with dinner and breakfast buffet for two starts at PhP 9,000 nett. On New Year’s Eve, rates begin at PhP 6,700 nett for room with breakfast, PhP 8,900 nett for the package with breakfast and countdown party access for two, PhP 9,500 nett for a stay for two with dinner and breakfast, and PhP 11,700 nett for an all-out celebration with accommodations, dinner, party tickets, and breakfast for two.

Richmonde Café becomes a gathering place for memorable dining, serving Fil-Hispanic-inspired Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve dinner buffets at PhP 1,950 nett, along with Christmas and New Year breakfast buffets starting at PhP 1,250 nett. The hotel continues its tradition of fun festivities with its New Year’s Eve Countdown Party (PhP 1,450 nett), complete with a bar chow buffet, select drinks, live entertainment, and party favors for a thrilling welcome event for 2026 at the hotel lobby. To enjoy the ultimate evening affair, the New Year’s Eve Celebration Bundle combining the dinner buffet and countdown experience is available at the discounted rate of PhP 2,850 nett. For children 6 to 12 years old, all buffet and countdown offerings are at half price and free for those 5 years old and below.

Adding to the season’s charm is Richmonde’s selection of hampers and pastries featuring Filipino flavors and signature baked creations, like the ensaymada and chocolate cake, that are delightfully nostalgic whether offered as heartfelt gifts or included in any holiday spread. 

This year’s collection highlights the beautiful and tasty hampers each filled with thoughtfully curated delicacies: the Best of Richmonde Hamper containing Richmonde’s signature classic ensaymada, pork floss, banana walnut bread, basil nuts, dark & white chocolate cookies, and Sampaguita polvoron is priced at PhP 1,950 nett; the Box of Filipino Flavors with five locally-inspired desserts—cacao & kapeng barako tiramisu, kasuy pili brittle, ube keso & pandan macapuno macarons, mango pinipig bars, and peanut butter cookies goes for only PhP 1,650 nett; and the Sampaguita Hamper consisting of focaccia bread, butterscotch spread, bacon onion marmalade, and polvoron flavored with the delicate essence of the Sampaguita, plus Richmonde’s mascot plushy has a price tag of just PhP 1,450 nett.

For more information or to make a reservation, call (632) 8638 7777 / (63) 917 534 4352 (Richmonde Café) / (63) 917 859 7914 (Room Reservations) or email stay@richmondeortigas.com. For instant confirmation on room bookings, log on to www.richmondehotelortigas.com.ph.

EASTWOOD RICHMONDE HOTEL: The Season Sparkles in the Metro’s Vibrant Lifestyle Township

Over at Eastwood Richmonde, the hotel stands at the center of the ever colorful live-work-play community of Eastwood City, making it an ideal holiday base for families and city explorers who enjoy having entertainment, dining, and shopping just steps away. 

Its Starlit Stays offer discounts for the season with room rates starting at PhP 4,900 nett, and available until January 31, 2026 for long-stay guests, returning city residents, and those who prefer to mark the holidays close to home. For an unforgettably wonderful “stay-lebration” on December 24 and 31, Richmonde presents premium Christmas Eve packages starting at PhP 9,600 nett for breakfast-inclusive stays for two and PhP 12,100 nett for a stay with dinner and breakfast buffets for two. On New Year’s Eve, packages start at PhP 11,000 nett with New Year’s Day brunch buffet for two and at PhP 13,500 nett for a stay with countdown access and brunch buffet for two.

Eastwood Café+Bar sets the stage for radiant celebrations with Shining Feasts, a series of sparkling joyful gatherings and dining experiences. The Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet (PhP 2,250 nett) offers festive local and international dishes, wine and drinks, plus fun giveaways, while the Christmas Day Breakfast Buffet at PhP 1,399 nett per person, sets a comforting tone for holiday mornings. The hotel keeps the merriment bright with its Decades & Dancing New Year’s Eve Countdown Party (PhP 2,250 nett) at the hotel lobby featuring a mouthwatering cocktail buffet, bottomless drinks, live band performance, games, and dancing ‘til the clock strikes 12. The festivities continue the next morning with a hearty New Year’s Day Brunch Buffet served at the Ballroom for PhP 1,699 nett. And for feasting that’s truly family-friendly, children 6 to 12 years old get 50% discount on buffet rates and toddlers 5 years and below get to eat for free. 

Adding even more happiness to the holidays is Eastwood Richmonde’s Treasure Treats available exclusively for this season. This assortment of goodies—from beautifully assembled hampers, freshly baked pastries, signature ensaymadas, and flavorful holiday hams—are perfect for thoughtful gifting or elevating at-home feasts. Choose from this selection of carefully curated hampers for practical presents that impress: the Sweet Holiday Hamper (PhP 1,975 nett) consisting of banana walnut loaf, quezo de bola and yema ensaymadas, and assorted cookies; the Savory Holiday Hamper (PhP 2,865 nett) featuring sliced muscovado ham, croissant loaf, tablea, fruit jam, and salted egg ensaymada; and the Sampaguita Holiday Hamper (PhP 1,975 nett) containing sliced muscovado ham, Sampaguita dinner rolls, and Sampaguita mango jam.

For more information or to make a reservation, call (632) 8570 7777  / (63) 917 821 0333 (Eastwood Café+Bar) / (63) 917 531 6867 (Room Reservations) or email stay@eastwoodrichmonde.com. For instant confirmation on room bookings, log on to www.eastwoodrichmondehotel.com.ph.

Reasons to Celebrate the Season at Richmonde

With inviting stays, heartwarming feasts, and a style of care that feels both personal and familiar, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas and Eastwood Richmonde Hotel present countless reasons to celebrate the holidays in the city. Each property thoughtfully weaves cherished Filipino traditions into its seasonal offerings—honoring what families hold dear while creating space for new rituals to enjoy in the years ahead. Anchored on Richmonde’s signature comfort, intuitive service, and the distinct Sampaguita brand of hospitality, every celebration becomes an experience filled with meaning, connection, and memories that linger long after the season has passed.

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

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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 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 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.

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.

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!

Your Bonus Just Dropped—Here’s How To Make It Work Harder with Maya

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Your 13th-month pay just landed and suddenly everything feels possible. The cart you’ve been “saving for later,” the holiday plans, the upgrades, the “I deserve this” moment. But before you go full haul mode, here’s a little reality check: your bonus is more than a treat. It’s a reset button, a jumpstart, and honestly, one of the best chances you’ll get all year to build a healthier relationship with your money.

So if you want to enter 2026 with your finances looking put together, here’s your guide — powered by Maya, the #1 Digital Bank and #1 Fintech Ecosystem in the Philippines.

1. Don’t spend blindly, give your money an assignment.

Your bonus isn’t a windfall, it’s a strategy. Before anything else, give every peso a purpose. Try this simple split:

· 50% for bills and responsibilities

· 30% for fun (yes, you can still treat yourself)

· 20% for savings or investments

When you do spend, make the swipe intentional. Pay for gifts, bills, groceries, and holiday outings with Maya, because this Christmas, Maya is giving you and your chosen referral a chance to be TWINYONARYOS—each winning ₱1 million! Using Maya Easy Credit? That’s 5x more entries. And here’s the ultimate power move: refer friends with your @username and earn 10x more entries per successful referral.

2. Park money for “future you”

Here’s where most people slip: everything goes into one account and poof, the bonus magically disappears. If you want yours to actually work for you, start by giving it a real home.

Begin with Maya Savings, where your money grows with up to 15% p.a. interest, credited daily so you literally watch your balance climb. Even moving just a portion of your bonus here helps you hit the ground running for 2026.

Then build structure with Maya Personal Goals, your best friend for financial boundaries. You can create up to five different goal accounts, each earning 4% base interest, with your rate increasing every ₱20,000 you add (up to 8% p.a. for deposits up to ₱100,000). Think: one for emergencies, one for travel, one for home upgrades, one for big purchases, one for long-term plans. No lock-ins. No stress. Just organized money that grows faster.

And if you're the type who wants your bonus to grow steadily and predictably, this is where Time Deposit Plus comes in. You can lock in your money for 3, 6, or 12 months with guaranteed rates of up to 6% p.a. on deposits of up to ₱1 million per Time Deposit Plus account. And because you can open up to five accounts, that’s as much as ₱5 million in total interest-earning deposits.

The best part? Unlike traditional time deposits, you can keep adding funds anytime, even after hitting your target amount. It’s perfect if you want the discipline and stability of a time deposit, but with way more flexibility.

This is how you protect your bonus from slipping through the cracks and make your future self genuinely proud.

3. Build a buffer for life’s curveballs.

Rainy days don’t schedule appointments and nothing derails your finances like an unexpected bill or repair. Your bonus is the perfect chance to finally build that cushion.

Boost your emergency fund using Maya Savings or set up a dedicated Personal Goal just for emergencies. And if life throws something bigger than expected? Maya Easy Credit gives you instant access to funds with no paperwork, no collateral, so you don’t have to touch your hard-earned savings when things get tough.

To know more, visit maya.ph or mayabank.ph, and follow @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to stay updated. Maya Philippines, Inc. and Maya Bank, Inc. are regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (www.bsp.gov.ph). Deposits are insured by PDIC up to ₱1 million per depositor.

Don’t Buy Another Generic Gift: 6 Ways to Gift Small to Make Your Filipino Christmas More Meaningful This Year

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In the Philippines, Christmas isn’t just a date—it’s a tradition of 4ung Filipinos - especially Gen Z - are embracing a “smaller gifts, bigger meaning” mindset.

Instead of mass-produced presents, they’re choosing personal finds from creative makers and markets - simple, heartfelt gifts that say, “I thought of you.”

That’s why Goodday Friz fits right in. For Gen Z, it’s more than just a drink - it’s a small, joyful gift that reflects their love for intentional choices, with a refreshing taste and health benefits thanks to Paraprobiotics clinically shown to support immunity, perfect for the Filipino way of sharing care.

A little can with a lot of good inside, Goodday Friz brings wellness, feel-good energy, and the spirit of giving in every sip.

Where Gen Z Finds Their “Gift Small, Gift Meaningful” Inspiration

For Gen Z, gifting isn’t just about buying something; it’s about finding pieces with personality and intention, often discovered in creative corners and community-led spaces. With that in mind, here are some standout gifting ideas that capture personality, creativity, and intention—perfect for Gen Z’s way of celebrating.

1. Handmade Journals & Tiny Pottery

Cozy, creative nooks often feature small treasures, such as hand-bound journals, mini vases, and delicately glazed pottery. These pieces feel personal and thoughtful, perfect for friends who love art and storytelling in their everyday items.

2. Embroidered Trinkets & Artisanal Accessories

From embroidered patches to small hand-stitched charms, these gifts add a soft, sentimental touch. They’re easy to slip into letters, tote bags, or gift bundles.

3. Scent Kits, Mini Plants & Mindful Self-Care Sets

For those who appreciate slow living, calming scent kits, small potted plants, or tiny curated self-care sets make grounding, meaningful presents. They offer small, quiet moments of rest.

4. Unique Stationery & DIY Craft Gifts

Some community spaces blend creativity and comfort, with gifts like quirky notecards, personalized keychains, or even handmade stickers. DIY kits or quick workshops also let you create gifts, making it more heartfelt and meaningful.

5. Crochet Finds, Eco Keepsakes & Dessert Samplers

Pop‑up stalls and maker corners are treasure troves for small delights, crochet mini accessories, eco-friendly trinkets, hand-poured candles, or bite-sized dessert sampler boxes that showcase exquisite craftsmanship and flavor.

6. Mini Gift Trays & Pocket-Sized Treats

Curated trays filled with tiny treats—like artisanal snacks, small artworks, or pocket décor pieces—are fun to build and even more fun to give. They feel personal without being extravagant.

Enter Goodday Friz: Your Feel-Good Companion for Holiday Gifting Runs

Just like these small but hearty finds, Goodday Friz sparks instant, uplifting joy. Light, fizzy, colorful, and powered by LAC-Shield paraprobiotic goodness, it’s the kind of fun, feel‑good refreshment that turns gift runs, craft sessions, or market‑hopping into brighter, more shareable moments. Get a can of Goodday Friz today at your nearest supermarket and convenience stores.

Check out Goodday on Facebook, Instagram, and on TikTok @gooddayfrizph