'Tis the season of giving: 50,000 families receive noche buena packs from BDO Foundation

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Christmas comes alive in simple acts of kindness, generosity and bayanihan. In celebration of the season, BDO Foundation distributed gift packs to 50,000 families nationwide in line with its annual Handog Sa ’Yo ng BDO Foundation Christmas gift-giving initiative.

In partnership with non-governmental organizations Ako ang Saklay, Ako Bakwit, Caritas Philippines and Tanging Yaman Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of BDO Unibank mobilized BDO employee volunteers for the distribution, which was conducted in 90 different parishes and dioceses.

“Our goal with the Handog Sa ‘Yo program is to support families in various communities celebrate a brighter Christmas through our simple and humble contribution,” shared BDO Foundation president Mario Deriquito.

Christmas gift-giving initiative. Families all over the country receive noche buena gift packs from BDO Foundation.

More than 500 volunteers from BDO branches and head offices across the country participated in the distribution of noche buena packs, which contain holiday food items that families can serve in their gatherings.

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About BDO Foundation

BDO Foundation is the corporate social responsibility arm of BDO Unibank. Founded in 2008, the foundation contributes to nation-building by addressing the needs of various sectors of society through programs in the areas of financial inclusion, disaster response, rehabilitation and rebuilding. Supported by the BDO Unibank community and in partnership with local government units and non-governmental organizations, BDO Foundation mounts relief operations, rehabilitates rural health units, constructs school buildings and implements financial education programs across the country. Its corporate citizenship initiatives have been recognized at the Retail Banking Awards of Asian Banking & Finance magazine and Asia Responsible Enterprise Awards of Enterprise Asia. For more information, visit www.bdo.com.ph.

No Gifts? No Problem! Here's A Curated List of Amazing Logitech Items for Last-Minute Shoppers

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Last-minute holiday gifts that deliver style, performance, and joy -- because thoughtful gifting never goes out of season.

Thinking of the perfect gift for the holidays can be nerve wracking, more so when you’re racing against the clock. If you’re still undecided, or simply forgot to shop earlier, don’t panic -- Logitech has the perfect last-minute solutions to make your holiday gifting a breeze.

Gifts for workaholics on the go

For the multitaskers and remote workers who are always on the go, these Logitech picks ensure they stay productive, stylish, and efficient no matter where they work.

1. POP Icon Combo

Add some personality to their workspace with this vibrant keyboard and mouse duo. Featuring low-profile keys that give a satisfying and smooth typing feel, and four action keys customizable through Logi Options+ app, the POP Icon Keys is as fun as it is functional. The POP Mouse allows precise and swift scrolling and produces 90 percent less noise thanks to Silent Touch Technology. The POP Icon Combo’s portable and wireless design ensures reliable performance from wherever and whenever inspiration strikes.

2. MX Brio Ultra HD 4K Webcam

Make online meetings and conferences look more vibrant with the MX Brio. This 4K Ultra HD webcam delivers crystal-clear visuals with AI-powered lighting adjustments, ensuring pristine video quality even under dim environments. With its noise-canceling microphones, every word is heard as clearly as it’s spoken.

3. Wave Keys Wireless Ergonomic Keyboard

Nothing can be more thoughtful than making someone’s comfort a priority. The Wave Keys boasts a curved keyframe and cushioned palm rest, making long typing sessions feel effortless.

4. Lift Vertical Ergonomic Mouse

On the subject of ergonomically designed gadgets, the Lift Vertical Ergonomic Mouse provides all-day comfort for small- to medium-sized hands thanks to its uniquely shaped design. It reduces wrist strains and has four conveniently placed buttons to maximize and personalize your workflow.

5. Combo Touch for iPad Pro and iPad Air

Looking to spruce up your iPad this Christmas? The Combo Touch keyboard, available in 13 inch and 11 inch variants, transforms your iPad into a laptop for those on-the-go work trips.

Premium gifts under ₱5,000

Quality gifts don't always have to come with a hefty price tag. These Logitech picks are sure to be thoughtful as it is affordable.

1. Logitech Studio Series Desk Mat

Sometimes, a simple and practical gift is exactly what someone might need. Add a touch of style and functionality to any workspace with the Logitech Desk Mat. Its spill-resistant surface and sleek design make it a practical and chic desk upgrade. Available in Lavender, Dark Rose, and Mid Gray, it offers a smooth and comfortable gliding feel and accommodates all your desktop essentials.

2. Pebble Keys 2 K380s

Lightweight, colorful, and designed for multi-device pairing, the Pebble Keys 2 K380s offer soft-touch typing and portability with a refreshing set of colorways to choose from. Its minimalist design and compact build is sure to exude a chic and playful vibe, adding a splash of personality to liven up your workspace.

3. MX Master 3s

The MX Master 3s offers unparalleled precision with its MagSpeed Electromagnetic wheel and ultra-quiet clicks. It’s the ultimate mouse companion for designers, writers, and anyone with big projects in mind.

4. MX Anywhere 3s

For a truly versatile and professional performance, the MX Anywhere 3s glides on any surface, even glass, with its 8K tracking and features a low-profile design to keep up with your workflow seamlessly.

5. Signature Slim Combo

This stylish combo features the Signature Slim K950 wireless keyboard and Signature

Plus M650 wireless mouse to cater to your dynamic work needs. With reliable performance, spill-resistant keys, and long battery life, it’s a practical yet sleek choice for productivity enthusiasts.

6. Keys-to-Go 2

Another great keyboard option is the Keys-to-Go 2 for tablets. It pairs well with any tablet, smartphone, iPhone and laptop via Bluetooth connection and comes with an integrated cover to protect it from spills and damage. It’s small and portable, perfect for travel!

7. Brio 300

The Brio 300 is a simple yet effective way to upscale your virtual conference experience. This external webcam offers full HD 1080p resolution and automatic light adjustment for clear, sharp visuals.

Gifts for the ultimate audio experience

For those who love sharing playlists or losing themselves in immersive soundscapes, Logitech’s audio lineup will definitely make the holidays extra special.

1. Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4

For the friend who’s always the life of the party, the Wonderboom 4 delivers a bold 360-degree sound and impressive bass in a compact, waterproof design. It can be paired with another Wonderboom 4 or Wonderboom 3 for better sound and coverage.

2. Ultimate Ears Mini Roll

For tunes on the go, the Mini Roll is the ideal gift. Its portable, lightweight design ensures great sound no matter where you are, making it a trusty travel companion. Clip it to your bag with the included strap and enjoy your favorite music on the road for up to 12 hours on a full charge.

3. Ultimate Ears Boom 4

Powerful and with great sound quality, the Boom 4 speaker offers immersive audio and a rugged design that’s fitting for the holiday celebrations. Its megaphone feature, accessible via the Boom App, allows your voice to be relayed onto the speaker, perfect for calling people on the dance floor and sing-alongs.

4. Ultimate Ears Everboom

Another solid speaker under the Ultimate Ears series, the Everboom offers immersive 360° sound that wraps every note around the room. With up to 20 hours of battery life and features like one-touch NFC pairing and outdoor boost for extra sound clarity, this speaker is built for all-day listening and holiday cheer.

Celebrate the holidays in the company of your loved ones and make memorable moments with Logitech’s selection of quality products.Visit www.logitech.com today and browse through its catalog of gaming and PC peripherals.

Why vivo V40 Lite is Built for Holiday Hustle

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Whether you're celebrating with family, reconnecting with old friends or still even balancing work commitments, the vivo V40 Lite is designed to keep pace with your dynamic schedule this season.

Equipped with stand-out features, from powerful camera capabilities to durable battery life, the vivo V40 Lite is every multitasker's ideal companion!

Ready to power through the holiday hustle?

With Normal Flash

With V40 AI Aura Light

Create crystal-clear memories

Your holiday postcards are ready to impress as the vivo 40 Lite doesn't hold back on camera quality!

With a 50MP main camera for stunningly clear images, a 32MP portrait camera that delivers flawless selfies, and an 8MP ultra wide-angle camera with a 120° field of view, this smartphone ensures every snapshot is a masterpiece.

What's even better? Its AI Aura Light feature guarantees vibrant portraits that make you the star of every shot — even in low-light environment! Your holiday memories will shine as bright as your spirit!

Stay powered up all-day long

The holiday season waits for no one, and neither does the vivo V40 Lite.

Boasting 5000mAh battery with 80W FlashCharge, you can count on this device for all-day power. A quick 30-minute charge provides 60%, ensuring you're always good to go!

From binge-watching holiday movies to gaming and connecting with loved ones abroad through video calls, the vivo V40 Lite can surely handle it all and more.

Celebrate in style

'Tis the season for celebrating and amping up your style.

Available in three versatile colorways, the vivo V40 Lite adds a touch of flair and festive vibes to your outfit!

• Titanium Silver

• Dynamic Black

• Dreamy Purple

Your holiday hero with premium features at an affordable price

Stay on top of the festivities with the vivo V40 Lite for as low as Php 13,999 available at vivo e-store, Shopee, Lazada, and authorized retail stores nationwide!

SM expands MICE destination in Clark

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The SM group, through SMX Convention Center Clark, aims to bolster its capacity to host large-scale events by expanding its usable space by 2026 to 2028. The planned expansion of SMX Clark is already in the pipeline to address the growing demand in the region.

SMX Convention Center Clark is located beside Park Inn by Radisson Clark within SM’s integrated property development in the province. It has over 4,000 square meters of leasable space, 3 halls, 3 function rooms, and 14 meeting rooms.

This is made possible by the SM group’s integrated property development approach reinforcing its commitment to support Clark's growth as a prime destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE). Once completed, it is set to become one of the largest SMX venues.

“Through the combined efforts of SM’s business units such as Park Inn by Radisson Clark, SMX Convention Center, and SM City Clark, we help support the vision to transform Clark into a thriving hub for MICE activities,” said Mr. Eduardo Miguel Morato, Cluster Senior Branch Manager for SMX Clark.

“In addition to driving growth for MICE in the region, it also generates livelihood opportunities within the community and spurs local tourism activities,” he added.

The MICE industry in Central Luzon’s Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone continues to flourish, as the SM group’s presence in Clark creates a seamless experience for MICE participants. With SMX’s proximity to the Clark International Airport—a 20-minute drive via Manual Roxas Highway, travelers, whether leisure or business, professionals could easily access SM’s one-stop hub for world events, accommodations, and modern retail services.

The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) noted that SM’s influence on Clark’s tourism industry is reflected in the total number of tourist arrivals in the Clark Freeport Zone, particularly in measuring same-day guests.

From January to June 2024, there were a total of 16.3 million tourists who visited Clark categorized as overnight arrivals, same-day guests, and airport arrivals. Same-day guests were recorded at 14,586,705 from 740,783 same-day guests in the same period last year, marking a 1,869% increase.

Synergy plays a significant role in supporting this growth, with Park Inn by Radisson Clark offering over 200 rooms and plans for expansion already in progress. In anticipation of this potential growth, the hotel taps into local talent, seeking individuals who truly understand the community. This is reflective of Park Inn’s staff members, 80% of whom are locally hired from Pampanga.

The promotion of Clark as a go-to MICE destination is evident with 115 events held in the area over the past year. These include 36 running events, 13 biking, duathlon, and triathlon events, 9 spectator shows, 7 festivals, and 50 other activities.

This year, SMX Clark was the venue for the prestigious MICECON 2024 last July that brought together leaders, stakeholders, and experts to discuss the future of the MICE industry in the Philippines.

“This journey isn’t just about infrastructure,” said Mr. Morato. “It is also about building a thriving community where business, tourism, and local talent come together in providing world-class facilities and services that meet the evolving needs of our clients and partners.”

SMX Convention Center currently operates eight branches nationwide, namely SMX Manila, Megatrade Hall, SMX Aura, SMX Clark, SMX Olongapo, SMX Bacolod, Sky Hall Seaside Cebu, and SMX Davao. In the coming years, SMX is also set to open the SMX Convention Center Cebu in South Road Properties, Cebu City, by the fourth quarter of 2026. This new facility will boast a gross floor area of 40,879.40 square meters and a gross leasable area of 24,212.74 square meters.

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About SM Investments Corporation

SM Investments Corporation is one of the leading Philippine companies that is invested in market-leading businesses in retail, banking, and property. It also invests in ventures that capture high growth opportunities in the emerging Philippine economy.

SM’s retail operations are the country’s largest and most diversified, consisting of grocery stores, department stores and specialty retail stores. SM’s property arm, SM Prime Holdings, Inc., is the largest integrated property developer in the Philippines with interests in malls, residences, offices, hotels, and convention centers as well as tourism-related property developments. SM’s interests in banking are in BDO Unibank, Inc., the country’s largest bank, and China Banking Corporation, the fourth largest private domestic bank.

For more information, please visit www.sminvestments.com

For inquiries, please contact: smic_corpcomm@sminvestments.com

Camella Spreads Christmas Warmth Across its Communities

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Camella communities around the islands came alive this Christmas with the warmth of Filipino traditions. From festive lighting ceremonies to engaging activities, the Philippines’ largest homebuilder invited families and business partners, to celebrate, connect, and create lasting memories that reflect the true essence of Christmas.

Head home for the holidays and create new memories you and Camella will hold close to your hearts forever.

Lighting up the holidays together

Camella communities nationwide kicked off the season with synchronized lighting ceremonies, unveiling stunning holiday backdrops and iconic symbols unique to the regional culture of each neighborhood. This magical moment transformed forever homes into dazzling spectacles that brightened the evening sky, heralding the start of a month-long celebration. More than just a visual display, the moment symbolized unity, bringing communities across the archipelago together in shared joy.

A showcase of Filipino Christmas traditions

Christmas night bazaars offered residents and visitors an enchanting holiday experience steeped in Filipino heritage. Guests and residents enjoyed traditional treats such as bibingka and puto bumbong, paired with salabat or tsokolate baterol, while food booths recreated the warmth of Noche Buena, offering beloved holiday dishes to share with the community.

Specialty stalls featured local crafts and handmade items, ideal for those seeking unique gifts for this season of giving. These one-of-a-kind treasures showcased artisanal talent and creativity, providing families with special souvenirs that reflect the beauty of Filipino craftsmanship.

To add to the festive atmosphere, the bazaars featured mini performances by emerging local talent, creating an atmosphere brimming with cultural and community pride. Attendees also enjoyed interactive photo panels and games, capturing memories and fostering an engaging experience.

Honoring Filipino Heritage

Camella communities embraced the rich traditions of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao by transforming their spaces into festive showcases of rich Filipino culture.

With vivid colors and traditional motifs, each location reflected the artistry and symbolism of Christmas, reminding families of cherished moments like shared meals and gatherings. Residents actively participated in decorating, ensuring each site reflected its distinct identity and fostered community pride and camaraderie.

The grand Christmas trees, each uniquely decorated to reflect the regional character, illuminated every Camella community with delight.

Extending the celebration online

Camella extended the holiday celebration into the digital sphere through online initiatives designed to connect residents and followers while spreading the joy of Filipino Christmas traditions.

The grand prize winner of Camella’s digital art competition called A Canvas of Unbreakable Bonds. Johnry Cornico illustrates how beloved traditions, passed down from one generation to the next, transform into cherished memories that stand the test of time.

Among these was a digital art competition called A Canvas of Unbreakable Bonds, showcasing their creativity by submitting artwork that reflected the themes of family, unity, and the holiday spirit. Winning entries were featured on the official Camella platforms, celebrating the artistic talents of the community and the essence of the season.

The winning entry by Johnry Cornico masterfully encapsulates the true essence of Christmas—a season that goes beyond festivities to celebrate the enduring warmth of togetherness, the joy of shared laughter, and the strength drawn from unwavering support. Through his artwork, he illustrates how beloved traditions, passed down from one generation to the next, transform into cherished memories that stand the test of time. At its heart, the piece serves as a poignant reminder that the brilliance of Christmas is not found in material gifts or grandeur but in the love that binds a family and the moments of unity that make the season truly meaningful.

Special recognition was awarded to Jerlyn Geminiano for her evocative portrayal of how Filipino families create a home where they can forever belong. Her artwork explores the deeper meaning of home, emphasizing that it is not defined by walls or physical structures but by the presence of the people we love.

Special recognitions were awarded to Jerlyn Geminiano for her evocative portrayal of how Filipino families create a home where they can forever belong and Robert Jay Jael, whose work was inspired by the Hiligaynon concept of kaangtanan.

Another noteworthy piece came from Robert Jay Jael, whose work was inspired by the Hiligaynon concept of kaangtanan, which represents the deep familial ties that hold families close through life’s joys and challenges. By incorporating the image of interwoven hands, Jael symbolizes the collective labor and care that go into building a true sense of belonging.

Through these efforts, Camella fostered a sense of togetherness that transcended physical boundaries, bringing residents closer through shared stories, creative expressions, and meaningful interactions that honored the richness of Filipino Christmas traditions.

Building homes for generations of holidays

Camella makes it possible for Filipinos to find their dream homes with savings of as much as PHP 1 million for select ready-for-occupancy house models. Those opting to purchase a non-ready-for-occupancy unit can receive up to PHP 300,000 in gift certificates, while as much as PHP 250,000 outright discount will be given away to those who will avail of lot-only properties. Terms and conditions apply for these limited-time offers that prospective homebuyers and investors will want to take advantage of.

For more information about Camella communities nationwide, visit www.camella.com.ph and follow

@CamellaOffical.