December 8, the Church celebrates the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary

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On December 8, the Church celebrates one of the most important feasts of Our Lady, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This is the day when we remember and celebrate that God chose Mary to be the Mother of Jesus from the very first moment of her being; the moment of her conception.

History of Immaculate Conception

It is a day that celebrates the belief that Mary, mother of Jesus, was preserved from original sin all of her life.

For Roman Catholics, it is observed as a day of obligation with required church attendance.

The Immaculate Conception is a day whose meaning is often confused. By the sounds of it, one would think we would celebrate the day Jesus was conceived*. On the contrary, it is the day that the Blessed Mother Mary was conceived.

Mary's mother was St. Anne and her father was Joachim. While they are not mentioned in the bible, their names appear in some very early Christian texts. Anne and Joachim had been a childless couple until an angel appeared telling Anne that she would give birth to a child that the world would honour. Anne became a saint as she offered her child to god's service.

This day has been celebrated since at least the eighth century, but the idea that the word immaculate means that Mary was born without original sin divided many theological scholars over the centuries. It wasn't until 1854 that the argument was decided when Pope Pious IX proclaimed this belief to be an essential dogma of the Roman Catholic Church.

*If you think about it, December 8th is unlikely to be the date that Jesus was "conceived". It is the Feast of the Annunciation that celebrates the visit of the Archangel Gabriel to the Virgin Mary to announce to her that she would become the mother of Jesus. The date of the Feast of the Annunciation is March 25th - nine months before Christmas Day. Once the date of Christmas was finally accepted, then the March 25th was a no-brainer to be the date of the annunciation.

Special Non-Working Holiday

In accordance to Presidential Proclamation No. 845, December 8 or Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary is a special non-working Holiday in the Philippines.

On 29 December 2017 President Duterte signed Republic Act 10966, declaring 8 December of every year a special non-working holiday in the entire country "to commemorate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary, the principal patroness of the Philippines."

The Philippines has the third largest Catholic population in the world.

How Shopee Live Milyonaryo instantly changed the lives of lucky livestream shoppers

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Shopee Live, an interactive live-streaming feature on the Shopee app, has emerged as a powerful tool for Filipinos to explore new opportunities and build better lives. Its combination of engaging entertainment, enticing deals, and rewarding prizes has transformed how Filipinos shop and opened doors to rewarding experiences.

During Shopee’s Mega Pamasko Sale, the platform gave livestream shoppers a chance to become instant millionaires through Shopee Live Milyonaryo, where avid Shopee users Cyra Adona and Via Ingente were drawn as two of the life-changing promo’s lucky winners.

Via, an online clothing seller from Quezon province, has been using Shopee since the start of the pandemic to source items for selling through Shopee Live. This allows her to score incredible deals on wholesale items thanks to the app’s discounts and promos, such as free shipping and 70% off deals.

“Halos araw-araw po ako umoorder lalo na sa Shopee Live kasi nakaka-discount po ako. Mas malaki po ‘yung kinikita ko at ‘yung balik sa akin [I order from Shopee Live almost everyday because I am able to get discounts. I also earn more and get higher returns],” Via shared as she recalled the reasons why she became an avid fan of Shopee Live. Aside from livestreams of fellow online sellers, Via is also fond of watching live videos of creators and celebrities. “Nakakawili rin po kasi manood kahit minsan walang pambili[It’s fun to watch even if sometimes, I don't have the means to buy],” she said. Little did she know that her regular watching activity would lead her to claim the raffle code that would make her an instant millionaire.

“Isang beses lang po ako nag claim ng code, kaya ‘di ko po inakalang mananalo ako [I only claimed the code once, so I didn't expect that I would win],” Via said. She plans to use the cash prize to buy a new lot for her family. “Hindi po amin yung lupa kung saan nakatayo ‘yung bahay namin, so kapag pinaalis kami doon, wala na po kaming bahay at lupa. Gusto ko po sana ‘yung meron akong matatawag na akin [The lot on which our house stands is not ours, so if we get evicted, we will no longer have a home and a land. I would like to have something that I can call my own],” she expounded. To Via, winning one million pesos meant one step closer to her dream – having a home of their own.

First-time mom Cyra from Naic, Cavite, is among the early Shopee users since it was launched in 2015. She was drawn to the app because of its convenience when purchasing products online and the great deals it offers for shoppers like her. One of her favorite features is Shopee Coins since it can be used alongside platform vouchers.

Because mom duties can be a handful, Cyra prefers buying clothes and other products online, specifically through Shopee Live. It saves her the time and effort of having to go out, but at the same time, being able to see how the actual products look like. “Sa Shopee Live, nafeflex nang maayos ng sellers ‘yung mga damit, mas naipapakita kung ano ‘yung maganda at ‘yung actual sizes [In Shopee Live, sellers can showcase the clothes well, showing what looks good and the actual sizes more effectively],” Cyra said. Just like Via, she is also enticed by the many vouchers and discounts made available in Shopee Live.

Upon learning about Shopee Live Milyonaryo through one of the streams she watched, she simply claimed a unique code and eventually found herself as Shopee’s latest millionaire.

“Super blessed kasi hindi ko talaga ineexpect na mangyayari ‘yon. Sobrang bihira lang kasi mangyari ‘yung mga ganito, kaya sobrang saya lang talaga na hindi mo maipaliwanag [I feel super blessed because I really didn't expect that to happen. Instances like these are very rare, so it's just pure joy that you can't really explain],” Cyra explained.

When asked about her plans with the prize money, Cyra said that she is going to use it for her five-month-old baby who is currently confined in the hospital due to pneumonia, while the rest will be set aside to fund her baby’s education.

Both Via and Cyra expressed how Shopee has gone beyond being a platform for shopping and entertainment and how it has become a transformative force in the lives of Filipinos.

Participate in more rewarding experiences while you shop for Christmas presents and enjoy 70% off Pamasko Deals plus free shipping during the upcoming 12.12 Mega Pamasko Sale. Watch out for raffle codes from your favorite Shopee Live sellers from December 1 to 12 and get the chance to become the next Shopee Live Milyonaryo!

HONOR on the Rise: Is it Far Ahead of Other Brands

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The leading global smart devices provider HONOR is asserting its presence with the introduction of the HONOR 100 Series, positioning itself as a formidable contender against its competitors in terms of specifications and features. Recently, HONOR's Chief Executive Officer, George Zhao Ming, disclosed the company's objective to penetrate the European market and disrupt technology monopoly, aiming to catalyze industry-wide transformation and innovation.

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HONOR 100 Series hinted to set new industry standards and crush competition

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“Twenty years ago, who would have imagined that the iPhone could surpass Nokia? We should not shy away from challenging the powerful iPhone. Success requires the presence of challengers and a belief in our own potential,” said HONOR CEO George Zhao Ming.

HONOR ignited its 100 series with two phone models – HONOR 100 pioneered Snapdragon 7 Generation 3 phone, and HONOR 100 Pro, one of the earliest models to upgrade over MagicOS 8.0.

The HONOR 100 Series serves as the revolutionary successor of the previous HONOR 70 and HONOR 90 series. As such, enthusiasts and dedicated followers of the brand can anticipate a continuation of the high standards and innovative features set by its predecessors.

Launched in China in November 2023, HONOR 100 Series is available for pre-orders on the first week of December 2023 and is expected to be launched globally in 2024.

For more information and announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

NREA’s new officers to be introduced at in-person business meeting on December 7

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The National Real Estate Association (NREA) is capping off yet another productive year with an in-person business meeting on December 7, 2023, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. To be held at the Makati Sports Club on L.P. Leviste Street, Salcedo Village, Makati City, the upcoming event will feature important announcements and an awarding ceremony that is meant to recognize NREA’a achievements of 2023 and spur the association on a sustained path of success in the new year.

Ruth Marie C. Atienza, outgoing NREA National President, disclosed that the special guest and resource speaker will be Honorable Rafael M. Fajardo, Board Member of the Professional Regulatory Board for Real Estate Services (PRBRES). Fajardo is slated to discuss updates on the PRBRES’ programs and policies, and its mandate as a regulatory body created by the Real Estate Service Act.

Also lined up for the business meeting is NREA Chairperson Imelda C. Magtoto’s introduction of the association’s officers-elect for 2024. Among them are Imelda C. Magtoto, Board Chairlady; Ruth Marie Atienza, Board Vice Chairlady; Red Rosales, National President; Ma. Lorena Sales, Executive Vice President; Jovi Francis Tupaz, VP-internal; Atty. Ador Tolentino, VP-external; Zeny Fruto, VP-chapters; Loudette Carlos, secretary general; Nicole Choa, treasurer; Jeffrey Bongat, auditor; and Christian Mulingbayan, PRO.

Incoming trustees—Rodolfo Leonen (concurrently Education Chairman), Flerida Atayde, Jonathan Caro, Alma Grace Sarra, Emelina Pulido and Dave Lubong—will likewise be introduced.

NREA’s National President, Red Rosales

NREA’s National President, Red Rosales, will deliver a short message and provide a brief preview of his plans and programs for 2024. The induction of NREA’s new members will also be held.

While Rosales is set to explore future strategies, a highlight of the event will delve into past achievements—NREA’s Best Chapter and Best Chapter President of 2023 will be given due recognition.

Meantime, NREA’s PRO Jeffery Bongat has announced that as part of the NREA’s community social responsibility (CSR) projects, the association will hand over its donation to the Smokey Mountain Foundation, as well as its paint donations to the Department of Education, courtesy of Davies Paints.

NREA’s business forum is fully supported by its major sponsors: Pag-IBIG Fund and Hausland Development Corporation. The NREA likewise acknowledges their year-round sponsors: the OFW Party List; Mapecon Philippines, Inc.; Duraville Realty & Development Corporation; Davies Paint Philippines, Inc.; Bria Homes, Inc.; E. Ganzon, Inc., and SM Development Corporation.

Finally, the business meeting on December 7 will segue into a joyful Christmas celebration for NREA members and friends, who may look forward to hours of party time with social activities, games, and the de rigueur raffle with grand prizes in store.

Richmonde Hotel Ortigas Brings Flavors of Holiday Bliss this Christmas

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Holiday hampers are filled with goodies that are great for sharing.

It’s the time of year when good friends are dear, so spread Christmas cheer with Richmonde Hotel Ortigas’ delectable baked holiday creations and savory food platters! Lovingly prepared by the hotel’s skilled kitchen team, this year’s scrumptious culinary collection is the perfect indulgent addition to this season’s at-home feasts and the ideal thoughtful gift for loved ones and business colleagues.

Richmonde Hotel Ortigas’ Signature Ensaymada and Moist Chocolate Cake

A crowd favorite year in and year out, Richmonde’s Signature Ensaymadas are timeless bakery treats made extra big, extremely cheesy, ultra buttery, and perfectly salty & sweet. These come in classic plain (PhP 195), ube (PhP 225), and Alcapone (PhP 275) flavors. Mini versions are also available for easy sharing and gifting at affordable prices starting at PhP 275 for a box of 4 and PhP 600 for a box of 9.

Ever popular is Richmonde’s signature Chocolate Cake which is moist, fudgy, and decked out in holiday-themed decorations just for this season. Sold at 4” (PhP 260), 6” (PhP 625), and 8” (PhP 755) sizes, this dessert will satisfy the cravings of any chocoholic. For other chocolate-flavored pastries, highly recommended are the oatmeal-based Revel Bars with their chewy texture and decadent flavors (PhP 220, box of 4 and PhP 380, box of 10), and the Cruffin (PhP 195), a giant croissant-muffin hybrid filled with chocolate that oozes out when toasted and sliced.

Specialty breads make snacking more interesting and more delicious. Richmonde’s talented bakers created these choice bread options: Banana Walnut Bread (PhP 345), Pesto Loaf (PhP 220), Pepper Brioche (PhP 275), and Walnut & Raisin Baguette (PhP 180). Pair these breads with the hotel’s very own Italian butter spice (PhP 200) and Cranberry Jalapeno Dip (Php 225) and enjoy more enhanced flavors.

Cheesecake Cookie Sandwiches Cruffin

Better than just cheesecakes and cookies, Richmonde’s Cheesecake Cookie Sandwiches are what sweet dreams are made of. With scrumptious variants of red velvet, oatmeal, chocolate chip, matcha, and triple chocolate cookies with baked cheesecake filling, these distinctive desserts are available in two sizes and packed in boxes of 5 assorted flavors (PhP 225/box of 5 100g and PhP 385/box of 5 200g).

Holiday Hampers with carefully curated goodies make a great Christmas gift that keeps on giving. With sets good for sharing, these charming boxes will surely bring joy to those who will receive them. The Hearty Hamper of Happiness can be shared with up to six people and includes pesto loaf, pepper brioche, walnut & raisin baguette, Alcapone ensaymada, jars of Italian butter spice and cranberry jalapeño dip, a box of revel bars (4 pcs) and a box of 200g of assorted cheesecake cookie sandwiches (5 pcs), all for just PhP 2,480 nett. For smaller groups, the contents of the Blissful Baked Bites hamper, priced at only PhP 1,850 nett, can be enjoyed by up to three persons: mini pepper brioche, mini walnut & raisin baguette, mini Alcapone ensaymada, mini plain ensaymada, jars of Italian butter spice and cranberry jalapeño dip, a box of revel bars (4 pcs) and a box of 100g of assorted cheesecake cookie sandwiches (5 pcs).

Party Platters: Grilled Beef (top), Grilled Salmon Steak (left) and Lasagna Roll (right).

Pepper Brioche, Italian Butter Spice and Cranberry Jalapeno Dip

Cruffin

This season’s potluck parties and holiday celebrations at home call for Richmonde Café’s flavorful and filling platters of savory meals. With servings good for six to eight, these delectable takeaway feasts can be enjoyed anytime and anywhere. Choose one or choose all of these mouthwatering selections: Lasagna Roll (PhP 2,200), Grilled Beef with mixed vegetables and peppercorn sauce (PhP 3,600), and Grilled Salmon Steak with haricot beans and dill cream sauce (PhP 2,900).

See the display of holiday goodies at Richmonde Ortigas’ Lobby Café. You can also visit the hotel’s official Facebook page to see the complete catalogue. For hassle-free purchases, goodies are available for pickup and delivery until January 7, 2024, with advance orders and prepayment. Lead time of at least 48 hours is required and bulk orders may be arranged.

For inquiries and orders, call (632) 8638-7777, SMS or Viber (63) 917 534 4352, email fbsup@richmondeortigas.com, or message @Richmonde Hotel Ortigas on Facebook and Instagram.

As the initial venture of leading real estate company, Megaworld Corporation, into the hospitality business, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas is a proud local brand that opened in 1999 at the heart of the then-burgeoning Ortigas Center. It is now a member of the steadily growing stable of homegrown brands under the Megaworld Hotels and Resorts group. For more information on Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, log on to www.richmondehotelortigas.com.ph and for the latest news on the hotel, follow @RichmondeHotelOrtigas on Facebook and Instagram.