Celebrate the Holidays with Heartfelt Gift Ideas from Mocasa

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The holiday season is a time of wonder and magic, when people gather to celebrate love, gratitude, and the joy of giving. Choosing the perfect gift for your loved ones can be a fun but difficult and a bit costly endeavor.

Good thing, there is Mocasa, the Philippines’ first virtual credit wallet, which offers a Pay Later credit line of up to PHP30,000 repayable over 50 days at 0% interest. Simply download the app, apply for a "Pay Later" account, provide any required documentation (such as government IDs and proof of income), and you'll be approved in minutes. Once approved, you can now start your holiday shopping online using Mocasa’s virtual Mastercard. You may also use your Pay Later account when purchasing items in stores by simply scanning the QR PH code using the Scan to Pay feature powered by Asia United Bank (AUB).

Aside from Pay Later, Mocasa also provides Quick Loan, which offers a cash loan of up to PHP25,000 for as low as 0.2% daily interest payable in three installments. You can also pay off your Mocasa Quick Loan before the end of billing cycle and just pay the principal plus the actual daily interest.

The Gift of Entertainment and Convenience

Subscribing to streaming platforms take center stage as a novel and fun holiday present in the spirit of modern gifting. Imagine the excitement of receiving not just one present, but a year-long pass to a universe of entertainment. From the latest blockbuster movies, binge-worthy TV shows or as simple as listening to today’s latest music hits, your loved ones can enjoy a wide range of content tailored to their tastes. To make this even more awesome, have some food and booze delivered through food delivery service like foodpanda and pay later using Mocasa.

Another, navigating the metro's hectic holiday rush can surely be exhausting, especially for daily commuters. So, make their travels easier by gifting them a beepTM card preloaded through Mocasa app. They can also skip the long queues if they have insufficient balance. They just simply need to download the Mocasa mobile app, apply for a Pay Later account and activate their virtual Mastercard. Once approved, they can choose either to top-up or use their virtual Mastercard to reload their beepTM card.

DIY Munchies Straight from the Heart

Handmade gifts show love and affection. Try to make a batch of homemade cookies, jams, or leche flan as labor of love that will surely be remembered. It's a good thing you don't have to fear going to the grocery store to purchase the ingredients for these. Fortunately, online grocery delivery services like MetroMart are now available, and you can be sure that you will only receive the best and freshest ingredients. To top it all off, they have a lot of ongoing specials, so make sure to take advantage of them.

To make it even better, if you're a first-time MetroMart customer, you can receive PHP300 off for a minimum purchase of PHP3,000 when you use the code “MOCASANEW” and pay with your Mocasa virtual Mastercard. This offer is valid for one-time use until December 31.

Tech Gadgets for the Future Enthusiast

Consider the latest gadgets and equipment for the tech-savvy people in your life. Aside from smartphones and laptops, smart speakers, fitness trackers, noise-cancelling headphones, and virtual reality experiences can make their life more innovative and convenient. You can start looking for holiday deals at your favorite online stores, such as Lazada and SM Malls Online App, and fill your cart with items to be checked out later with Mocasa Pay Later.

To make online shopping with SM Malls Online App even merrier, sign up with Mocasa and use the referral code "SMONL" to receive a PHP200 e-voucher from SM. Simply install Mocasa, then register either for Pay Later or Quick Loan option. If your application is approved, you will receive your SM e-voucher and be alerted via SMS or in-app notification. Promo runs until December 25.

Gifts of Relaxation and Wellness

Needless to say, holidays are the ideal time for people to unwind, rest, or take care of themselves. So why not provide your loved ones with the care they deserve? You can splurge a bit and pamper them with a spa treatment, a makeover, or a wardrobe update for the upcoming season bought from your favorite online shop. You can also create a Tiktok video montage to recall this enjoyable event, much as they do in movies! And you don't have to worry about payments right away because you can pay it later, anywhere with Mocasa.

Holiday season is a time for giving, and these gift ideas will add a touch of joy and care to your festivities. Whether you choose a personalized touch, experiences over stuff, homemade treats, or luxury indulgences, always remember that the act of giving is a deep expression of love and appreciation. As you begin your Christmas shopping, keep in mind that the most important presents are those that originate from the heart and resonate with your loved ones' hobbies and characteristics. This year, let your gifts reflect the warmth and affection that characterize the holiday season.

Mocasa is a financial technology company duly licensed and regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and an accredited accessing entity of Credit Information Corporation (CIC). To learn more about the latest updates from Mocasa, visit www.mocasa.com or its Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok accounts. Customers are encouraged to download the app in Google Play to know more about its services and latest promos.

CHERRY CARES donate 300 tablets to DILG in support of KONTRA DROGA B.I.D.A (BUHAY INGATAN, DROGA’Y AYAWAN) Program

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CHERRY Cares— the corporate social responsibility arm of CHERRY Philippines, donates a total of 300 units of Flare Tab and Omega Tab Pro tablet to the office of Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on November 13, 2023 in Quezon City. This is in behalf of their flagship anti-drug campaign—Buhay Ingatan, Droga’y Ayawan (BIDA) Program.

(L-R) Atty. Salvacion Z. Baccay, Dir. Debie T. Torres, Atty. Kevin R. Carpeso , ASec. Rolando C. Puno, Ginesty Gilboy, Rica Mae Herrero and Ruzelle Camposano at the turnover ceremony of 300 Cherry Flare Tab and Omega Tab Pro tablets at the DILG Office in Quezon City (November 13, 2023). AP Photo/DILG

BIDA Program is an enhanced and comprehensive anti-drug campaign of DILG nationwide that prioritizes rehabilitation and socioeconomic growth. It's an effort to reduce drug demand while increasing awareness among all facets of the community. The local government units recognized by DILG with exceptional performance in this campaign against illegal drugs are the beneficiary of the CHERRY tablets.

“We are glad that CHERRY Cares signifies its support to the BIDA program with its CHERRY tablets as we honor the outstanding contributions of our Anti-Drug Abuse Council (ADAC) awardees. The ADACs are our heroes committed in implementing the BIDA program and in ultimately achieving the goal of a drug-free Philippines. Surely, the tablets will be a big help to them,” said ASec. Rolando C. Puno, Assistant for Communications and External Affairs.

Atty. Salvacion Z. Baccay, Assistant Director of Bureau of Local Government Supervision; Dir. Debie T. Torres, Director of Bureau of Local Government Supervision; Atty. Kevin R. Carpeso, Head Executive Assistant; and Assistant Secretary Rolando C. Puno, Assistant for Communications and External Affairs were present in the donation turnover. They enthusiastically received the tablets handed over by CHERRY Cares representative, namely Ginesty Gilboy, CHERRY Program Officer; Rica Mae Herrero, PR and CSR Associate; Ruzzelle Camposano, CSR Program Officer; and Marra Lanot, PR and Content Writer.

“It’s an honor to support this initiative of DILG and our local government units. This is part of our appreciation to our LGU’s Anti-Drug Abuse Council. We are hopeful that the tablets will bring value and aid to their campaign,” said Agnes Conopio, PR and CSR Head of Cherry.

CHERRY Cares by MSN Foundation encourages our families and communities to stand with DILG’s campaign in fortifying the drug reduction activities of local government sectors; disseminating awareness through different online and offline material; ensuring the commitment of the national government units and encouraging partnership with various organizations.

To learn more about the foundation and its other programs, visit:

Cherry Cares by MSN Foundation Inc. Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/CherryCaresbyMSNFI

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CHERRY caRES is the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) principle of Cherry Mobile that stands for Customers, nAtural Resources, Employees, and Society. It embodies the deep desire of the company to give back, share, care, and create a positive impact not just for its own people but more for the greater whole. Since 2011, CHERRY caREs laid the groundwork for the establishment of MSN Foundation, now the corporate foundation of CHERRY. It has spun various education, health, environment, livelihood, and community development programs in the hope of improving lives and igniting change in the nation one community at a time.

The Traveler’s Guide to Celebrating Thailand’s Festival of Lights (Loy Krathong) this November

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Thailand is set to sparkle this November as the country celebrates one of its most colourful and picturesque cultural festivals – Loy Krathong, also known as the Festival of Lights.

To celebrate the water goddess Phrae Mae Khongkha, millions of Thais float (loy) a little raft (krathong) commonly made from banana trunk and topped with flowers and candles. The krathongs carry the hopes, wishes, and gratitude of individuals, and represent the act of letting go of the old and ushering in the new.

Loy Krathong is celebrated nationwide every year, on the night of the full moon of the twelfth month of the Thai lunar calendar. The festival takes place on 27 November this year, and is a special occasion for both Thais and travellers who flock to the country for this dazzling festival.

Thailand was the #1 most visited country on Airbnb in Southeast Asia last year, with Bangkok the most visited city in the country. This Loy Krathong, Airbnb has already seen a 17 percent surge in international guests searching for a stay in Thailand*. The most popular destinations during this festive period are Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Phuket, Koh Samui, Hua Hin, Koh Pha Ngan and Krabi.** Many are flocking to The Land of Smiles for the end of year holidays – Airbnb has seen approximately an 88 percent spike in searches by China travellers for November-December travel to Thailand, and an over 15 percent increase in searches by Australian guests in the same period.***

If you’re thinking about visiting Thailand this holiday season, make it one to remember and join the festivities! Read on for Airbnb’s recommendations of the best destinations and places to stay to experience Loy Krathong.

Chiang Mai

Renowned for its mountains and lush forests, Chiang Mai in Thailand’s north is home to the traditional Lanna culture. Loy Krathong celebrations are marked by large ceremonies and illuminated temples and are held at the same time as the Yee Peng festival, where Thais release thousands of  paper lanterns (khom loi) into the night sky – making for a truly incredible sight.

Flowing through the heart of Chiang Mai province is the Ping River, a popular place amongst locals and visitors alike to float krathongs. Tha Phae Gate is another; located on the east side of the old city wall. The surrounding moat is a local favourite and popular gathering place, while Three Kings Monument in front of the old town hall has a lively atmosphere and attracts many to join in the activities.

You can’t leave Chiang Mai without trying the local delicacies, and there are many to choose from. Some must-tries are sai oua (a northern Thai sausage), nam ngiao (sour and spicy noodles with tomato soup), and the always popular khao soi (creamy coconut curry with crispy noodles).

Bangkok

Thailand’s vibrant capital transforms every Loy Krathong, as the city embraces its cultural roots and traditions in a spectacle not to be missed. The main water artery of Bangkok, the Chao Phraya River, is a popular destination for visitors and locals to float krathongs and where you can join in the festivities against the backdrop of iconic landmarks such as Wat Arun. Alternatively, make your way to Wat Saket where you can enjoy a memorable Loy Krathong by one of Bangkok's oldest canals, Khlong Maha Nak, and explore the iconic Golden Mount nearby.

A short stroll from the Chao Phraya is the hip neighbourhood of Song Wat – recently voted  one of the world’s 40 coolest neighbourhoods in 2023 by TimeOut – with an eclectic mix of art galleries and historical buildings to explore. While exploring Bangkok, don’t forget to try the city’s food offerings, from street food vendors offering Thai staples such as pad thai and pad krapow, to markets such as Jodd Fair and Michelin-starred eateries.

Phuket

There’s much more to Phuket than meets the eye. Famous for its beaches and islands, Phuket is steeped in history, and dotted with temples and shrines making for a unique Loy Krathong experience with an island-style vibe. There are more than 30 beaches where locals often float their krathongs. Alternatively, explore some of the less touristy and equally popular spots, such as Sapan Hin Lake and Suan Luang Park in Phuket Town, or Nai Harn Lake in the south or Bang-Ma-Ruan Lake in the north.

When in Phuket, don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy some of the freshest seafood caught daily from the Andaman Sea. Delicious Southern dishes to try include kaeng som (sour and spicy soup), massaman (a flavourful, slightly sweet Thai curry) and kaeng tai pla (an intensely spicy curry with fermented fish). And while enjoying island life, don’t forget to explore the history and Sino-Portuguese architecture in Phuket Town.

Searching for your perfect stay this Loy Krathong? Here are a selection of unique Airbnb stays where you can enjoy the sights and sounds:

●     Bohemian Home, Chiang Mai - Unique home located in a local neighbourhood near Tha Phae Gate and Warorot market.

●     Mango Home No.1, Chiang Mai - Adjacent to Sunday Walking Street and Tha Phae Gate, the old city is within easy reach.

●     Funky Handmade House, Chiang Mai - Beautiful hand-crafted teak house nestled along the foothills of Doi Suthep mountain.

●     Canal House, Bangkok - Antique canal house on the Thonburi side (old capital city) of Bangkok.

●     Antique Colonial Luang Prasit Canal Home, Bangkok - Colonial-style teakwood house located on Bangkok Yai Canal.

●     Chic Loft, Bangkok - Artistic loft-style townhouse located in the vibrant Thonglor neighbourhood.

●     Bella Vista Panwa, Phuket - Stunning sea views from this bungalow in Ao Yon on Phuket’s east coast.

●     Pangolin Villa, Phuket - Private pool villa in the north of Phuket close to Nai Thon and Nai Yang beaches.

●     Duplex-Style Pool Villa, Phuket - Duplex pool villa with garden view, located in the popular northwest area of Phuket.

Note

*Based on internal Airbnb data on inbound guest searches for stays in Thailand for check-in in October 2023 vs check-in in November 2023.

** Based on internal Airbnb data on top destinations in Thailand booked this Loy Krathong (check-in between 24-30 Nov 2023).

*** Based on internal Airbnb data on inbound guest searches for stays in Thailand for check-in November-December 2022 vs check-in November-December 2023.

 

Note: All stays referenced are intended purely to inspire and illustrate. Airbnb does not recommend or endorse specific stay or experience listings on the Airbnb platform.

 

Revisit The Hunger Games saga on Lionsgate Play before Watching The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes

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Many still hail The Hunger Games franchise as the peak of the dystopian genre even though the first movie premiered over a decade ago. Adapted from Suzanne Collins’ bestselling novel of the same name, Lionsgate’s The Hunger Games movies thrust viewers into the world of Panem where a band of rebels led by Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) attempts to overthrow an oppressive government. With a gripping narrative, intricate world-building, and a spectacle of violence and power, the trilogy grossed over $2.9 billion worldwide, kickstarting a trend of dystopian movies in the 2010s.

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Press play on a nostalgic marathon of The Hunger Games saga, exclusively 

                                                           streaming on Lionsgate Play.

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No one is ready to say goodbye to the world of Panem just yet. The latest installment from the franchise, The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, is set to hit the big screen on November 15. A prequel film set 64 years before the events of the first movie, it explores the childhood of a young President Coriolanus Snow (Tom Blyth) before he stepped to power in Panem.

Dystopian genre lovers will be thrilled to know that all of The Hunger Games movies are available for streaming exclusively on Lionsgate Play. So if you need to revisit the world of Panem and lose yourself once again in epic stories of survival, courage, and hope this is your cue to hit that play button!

The Hunger Games (2012)

Jennifer Lawrence brought Katniss Everdeen to life when she portrayed the bow-and-arrow-wielding teenager from the post-apocalyptic, dystopian nation of Panem. Katniss is a resourceful sixteen-year-old hardened from years of providing for her family in District 12. She heroically volunteers to take her younger sister’s place in the 74th Hunger Games, a televised event where tributes from each district are forced to fight to the death for the Capitol’s entertainment. Katniss and fellow District 12 tribute Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson) form an unlikely alliance and, in doing so, unintentionally defy everything the Capitol stands for.

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013)

Catching Fire picks up where the first movie left off, with Katniss and fellow victor Peeta on a Victory Tour of Panem. However, Katniss senses their newfound fame is just the spark needed to set ablaze a simmering rebellion against the oppressive government. To control Katniss as the symbol of resistance, the Capitol holds a Quarter Quell for the 75th Hunger Games. This year, tributes from each district will be chosen from the existing pool of victors, forcing Katniss and Peeta back into the arena. But things are not as they seem. Plans have been set in motion and the pair are thrust in the midst of a rebellion that could change Panem forever.

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 (2014)

Katniss is rescued from a devastating Quarter Quell and embraces becoming a symbol of the rebellion. After the Capitol reduces her home to rubble, she now lives in a supposedly nonexistent District 13 under the leadership of President Alma Coin (Julianne Moore). Katniss becomes the Mockingjay, a symbol of the rebellion. She attempts to save Peeta who was kidnapped by the Capitol. Throughout Mockingjay Part 1, we see Katniss struggling to cope with the loss of loved ones and the weight of her role in the rebellion.

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2 (2015)

The final film brings the trilogy to a thrilling conclusion. Katniss teams up with her closest friends and fellow rebels – Peeta, Gale Hawthorne (Liam Hemsworth), and Finnick Odair (Sam Claflin) – in a bid to defeat President Snow (Donald Sutherland) once and for all. As they take the battle in the streets of the Capitol, the rebels have to navigate through mortal traps, determine who the enemies are, and make moral choices that will determine the future of millions in Panem. In the end, Katniss understands that to truly liberate Panem’s citizens from a war that threatens to kill them all, she has to eliminate every single threat and put a total end to the bloodshed.

Watch all four The Hunger Games films, available exclusively on Lionsgate Play via PLDT Home. Immerse yourself in the dystopian world of Panem, right in time for the prequel!

 

Pop Into the Holiday Spirit with SM B-Pop Bears of Joy

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The SM Bears of Joy charity project aims to encourage generosity and spread holiday cheer to children in need this Christmas.

SM Cares, together with SM Supermalls and Toy Kingdom, returns with their annual Christmas charity project, the SM Bears of Joy.

This year, SM debuts their very first B-POP (short for Bear Pop) group, the Bear Pop Squad. This new group of idols captures the hearts of fans with the relatable stories they share, mirroring their fans’ daily experiences.

The Bear Pop Squad aims to inspire the same sense of community displayed by pop fandoms as mallgoers join in sharing a bear to a child in need for every purchase

Meet BIN, the group’s groovy dancer, who also enjoys nature hikes with his friends and volunteering at coastal clean-ups in his spare time

EYA’s strong personality comes out in her rap verses, but deep down, she’s an angel who loves to bike, enjoys payday sales, and has a heart for dogs (even if she’s allergic to them)

The squad’s maknae, ACE, is a vocal powerhouse, who makes friends with people both in and out the industry, and loves to volunteer at children’s hospitals

RINA is the group’s beloved leader, always ready to lend a hand to help those in need and a Grandma’s girl who always takes on the household chores

This collection features four brand-new designs that draw inspiration from the K-POP and P-POP community, and highlights the unity and togetherness in fan culture when it comes to celebrating shared interests.

SM’s Bear Pop Squad hopes to encourage customers and mallgoers to celebrate both the love of friendship and community as displayed by pop fandoms, and share that with children in need this Christmas season.

Buy one bear and donate another for only 250 pesos! The Bear Pop Squad will be available starting November 15 until December 25, 2023 in select SM Supermalls and Toy Kingdom branches, and can also be purchased through SM Online and Toy Kingdom Online Stores.